Christian Standhardinger did indeed request a trade from Ginebra.
However, the 35-year-old Filipino-German big man clarified that it was prior to the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
“Just to clarify, a year ago, I was open to being traded due to some dissatisfaction,” he commented on the Facebook post of Tiebreaker Times regarding what coach Tim Cone said was the reason why they traded the two-time Best Player of the Conference.
“However, after playing the whole season, I was keen on staying with Ginebra.”
During the 2023-24 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, Ginebra did not have the services of Justin Brownlee due to a pre-emptive suspension.
With Tony Bishop as the Gin Kings’ import, Ginebra was knocked out by San Miguel in the semifinals.
(C) PBA Images
Standhardinger averaged 16.5 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 5.0 assists during the tournament.
The 6-foot-8 big man went on to have a dominant Philippine Cup run, averaging 21.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per contest.
After another semifinals exit, Standhardinger shared that he expressed to the Ginebra management his desire to remain with the team.
“Recently, during my exit meeting, Coach Tim asked me if I was good to continue playing for him and the team. I said yes, and he expressed his happiness to have me on board,” he added.
However, on Friday evening, the trade was executed.
“Yesterday, Coach Tim called me and communicated his decision to trade me for younger players,” he revealed.
Standhardinger reiterated that there are no feelings of resentment from his end, saying that he is forever grateful for the opportunity to don a Ginebra jersey.
“I want to emphasize that I had nothing to do with this decision as I was committed to finishing my contract with Ginebra,” he said.
“Again, I respect the decision and understand the business side of sports. I just want to clarify that I did not leave you guys.”
