As the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup enters its crucial stage, Magnolia is eyeing a major roster move in the hopes of ending a long title drought.
According to multiple sources closely monitoring the situation, Magnolia has acquired William Navarro for the Hotshots, sending Calvin Abueva, Jerrick Balanza, and a second-round pick in the PBA Season 51 Draft to the NorthPort Batang Pier in return.
The trade was eventually approved on Tuesday.
Navarro, who was NorthPort’s Gilas draft pick in 2021, has emerged as one of the league’s top performers despite the Batang Pier’s ongoing struggles.
The versatile 6-foot-6 forward is currently averaging 20.57 points (fourth in the league), along with 10.57 rebounds, 1.86 assists, and 1.14 steals per game.
(C) PBA Images
On the other hand, Abueva has been with Magnolia over the past four years. The 37-year-old veteran is averaging 8.38 points and 5.38 rebounds this conference.
Balanza, meanwhile, has appeared in just four games for the Hotshots this season.
The Letran product played for Northport from 2021 to 2023.
This is the second trade between NorthPort and Magnolia in less than a year.
In 2024, Magnolia acquired Zavier Lucero from NorthPort in exchange for Jio Jalalon and Abu Tratter.
