By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The NLEX Road Warriors are looking for a shot at redemption after failing to qualify in the playoffs of the Commissioner’s Cup and will be bringing in a former NBA star in the upcoming Governor’s Cup.
Jonathan Simmons, one of the most promising young stars of the San Antonio Spurs who also had stints with the Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers, will suit up as NLEX’s import in next year’s edition of the import-laced conference.
The Road Warriors proudly announced their recent team development on December 29, 2022, which was also posted on their social media accounts.
NLEX head coach Frankie Lim also confirmed their management’s decision on bringing in Simmons and revealed that he is already on their shortlist several weeks ago.
Simmons became a young promising star under head coach Gregg Popovich and teamed up with the likes of Manu Ginobili and Kawhi Leonard when he was still playing for San Antonio.
He was given his biggest NBA break when Leonard got injured, averaging double-figures in a short span of streak before landing in Orlando.
It was with the Magic that he developed his offensive skill set and averaged 13.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists during the 2017-2018 NBA season.
After his NBA stint, Simmons got plenty of offers to play hoops overseas but chose to don the uniform of the Shanxi Loongs in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
Simmons will look to guide a young NLEX team after the departure of their long-time coach Yeng Guiao who came back to Rain or Shine last conference.
However, it will be a tough conference without their former young main gunner Calvin Oftana who was sent to the TNT Tropang Giga in a three-team trade together with the Blackwater Bossing.
Kevin Alas, Don Trollano, and Larry Fonacier currently lead the local pack and will have to complement Simmons’ game to clinch a winning conference.
