William Navarro expressed his sincerest apology to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas for the ‘miscommunication’ and ‘misunderstanding’ regarding his contract with Gilas Pilipinas.
Navarro, 25, signed with Korean Basketball League team Seoul Samsung prior to the FIBA Asia Cup. However, the Gilas draftee in the 2021 PBA Rookie Draft still had an existing contract with the SBP that runs until March 2023.
“I met with executive director Sonny Barrios at his office and reiterated my sincere apology for my error and the misunderstanding and miscommunication caused by my signing up with the Samsung Thunders of Korea,” his statement read.
“I now fully recognize that I have an existing contract with the SBP and am aware of its provision re the rights of my PBA Drafting Team thru the PBA special draft, Northport Batang Pier. Since the fallout of my actions, I have sought professional assistance and am now once again under the advisement of a management team that will assist me with contracts and commitments moving forward.”
Last week, Navarro was not able to obtain a letter of clearance from the SBP that will allow FIBA to complete his transfer to the Thunders.
Despite the situation he was in, Navarro still attended last Monday’s Gilas practice held at Meralco Gym.
“Last Monday, I attended the Gilas Pilipinas Monday Practice Session at Meralco Gym in a positive response to the invitation to me and to show my support and commitment to the National Team,” he said.
Navarro, for his part, is seeking understanding from the SBP, the Philippine Basketball Association, and the team that drafted him, Northport, hoping that they can give him clarity on where he can play professionally.
After all, Navarro has only played a handful of games over the past three years.
“I seek the kind understanding and generosity of the SBP, the PBA, and the Northport Batang Pier to give me a chance to pursue my and my family’s dreams for my basketball career. I pledge to abide by whatever decision they may arrive at regarding my case.
“Further, I commit to making myself available to Gilas whenever the program needs my services – this is why I wholeheartedly attended last night’s practice. Lastly, with this apology and clarification, I trust that we will all be united for the good of Gilas Pilipinas and Philippine basketball,” he closed.
