Converge head coach Aldin Ayo is leaving Maverick Ahanmisi’s situation to the management as he chooses to focus solely on building up the team.
The incoming second-year mentor said that the coaching staff’s attention is on developing the FiberXers at their disposal, although he’s hoping to hear good news from the negotiations between the club and the now-free agent soon.
“Hinayaan ko na lang sa management kasi right now, we’re busy practicing and busy preparing,” Ayo told reporters moments after their 119-82 win over Terrafirma in the PBA On Tour, Friday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
“Ang ginagawa namin ng coaching staff, kung sino ‘yung nandoon, ‘yun ang tinatrabaho namin ngayon,” he furthered.
Ahanmisi became an unrestricted free agent at the end of last season following the expiration of the one-season deal he signed early in the Philippine Cup.
Renewal talks began as early as the Governors’ Cup quarterfinals as Converge badly wanted to keep 31-year-old, who’s coming off easily his best season as a pro with career-high norms of 13.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists.
But as of this posting, both camps have yet to reach an agreement. Ahanmisi is still exploring other options as he’s being courted by other PBA teams.
The former third overall pick was nowhere to be found in Converge’s On Tour opener as he is still back home in the States.
Yet despite missing his services, the FiberXers beat the Dyip in dominant fashion, with half of the 10 players fielded finishing in double figures. Justin Arana had 24 points and 12 rebounds while Jerrick Balanza had 21.
“We’re still in the process of building up,” offered Ayo as he also has new guys in Mike Nieto and Adrian Wong, which they acquired in separate trades. “Maganda naman ‘yung naging response ng mga players.”
Still, the young bench tactician is hoping for the best in the contract discussions between Converge and the one-time PBA champion.
“Sana magkaroon na ng resulta,” said Ayo.
