Columbian head coach Johnedel Cardel revealed that the team may look to replace import Kyle Barone, following the Dyip’s poor 0-3 start in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
Barone tallied 21 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists versus the Blackwater Elite on Sunday evening. But that wasn’t enough, as the Dyip fell short in their comeback from 13 points down, 110-118.
“Yes, alarmed na kami.
“Kaya we will decide na dun sa import,” Cardel told Tiebreaker Times after the loss.
Cardel said that strong imports really do matter in this kind of conference, citing Blackwater as an example. The Elite are now 3-0 in the tilt big thanks to the hulking Alex Stepheson’s presence.
“Satisfied naman ako sa laro ng locals eh. Kaya lang big factor rito import eh. If you have a strong import, the locals will follow,” said Cardel, who’s now in his third conference as the Dyip’s chief mentor.
“Look at Blackwater. They’re three-zero because they have a good import, kaya ganado locals.”
Cardel said that they are already looking at prospects as their next reinforcement, and he hopes that they will be able to bring one over before playing NLEX Road Warriors on June 1.
Cardel refused to name names, though.
“May mga choices naman na kami. Hopefully, this June 1. Kung makakuha agad kami, mas better,” he said.
Cardel is also hoping that the team can find an import whom they can stick with for a longer time.
“Ayaw na namin magkamali sa pangalawa.”
