NLEX’s Larry Fonacier opts out of PBA bubble

Larry Fonacier will not join NLEX when the PBA resumes its 45th season inside the bubble at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga. 

Road Warriors head coach Yeng Guiao confirmed the development, citing a personal matter as the reason for the veteran sniper opting out.

“Yes, we excused him. His wife has health issues,” wrote the veteran mentor in a text message to Tiebreaker Times, Monday evening.

Fonacier reportedly also hasn’t been attending NLEX’s per-batch workouts since teams were allowed to do so late last August.

The Road Warriors will miss the veteran presence of the 38-year-old in the planned season restart on Oct. 9 at the former US military base.

However, Guiao said that the organization understands the situation of the seven-time PBA champion.

“The team and management understand his situation. Family is always a priority,” said the fiery coach, who’s also NLEX’s general manager.

NLEX is looking forward to the season resumption, optimistic with their chances even after the departure of Poy Erram via trade last February.

The team is now banking on its star tandem of Kiefer Ravena and Kevin Alas, both of whom signed to fresh max deals at the start of the month.

Aside from the two, NLEX also has Jericho Cruz, Philip Paniamogan, Bong Galanza, Mike Miranda, and JR Quinahan to rely on.

Guiao, though, said that they have yet to finalize the 15-man roster for the bubble. All 12 teams have until Sept. 23 to do so.