MANILA – NLEX Road Warriors’ dwindling campaign in the 2019 Honda PBA Commissioner’s Cup got a much-needed boost with the acquisition of Ilonggo Jericho Cruz in a three-team trade.
In the deal pending the approval of the PBA Commissioner’s Office, Cruz and Michael Miranda are headed to the Road Warriors, while Marion Magat goes to the KaTropa.
NorthPort Batang Pier, acting as conduit in the sister team trade, will get to future draft picks each from the Road Warriors and the KaTropa.
Road Warriors assistant coach Jojo Lastimosa said that the Iloilo City native Cruz is a welcome addition as they look to finally barge into the win-column after losing its first four matches.
“Tagal na naming hinihintay. Kailangan namin talaga,” said Lastimosa, who was calling the shots for NLEX in lieu of on leave Yeng Guiao. “Obviously kailangan namin ng veteran presence and firepower.”
The 28-year-old Cruz has not seen action for the Katropa for more than two months now after he was put by the team in the restricted free agent list during the Philippine Cup.
Cruz is expected to thrive at the Road Warriors following his effectiveness under Guiao when they were still at Rain or Shine Elasto Painters en route to him earning the Most Improved Player award in 2017.
The Road Warriors will have a week’s rest before returning to action on Saturday when it faces Blackwater Elite at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo./PN
