Alab Pilipinas is currently in search of a new name partner, as the brass of Tanduay have withdrawn its support, according to several sources closely monitoring the situation.
Based on an account of one of Tiebreaker Times’ sources, the disagreement between the two camps stemmed from head coach Jimmy Alapag’s reluctance to add free agent Joseph Yeo.
Yeo, a 12-year veteran, is a good friend of Tanduay president Bong Tan. The addition of the 6-foot-1 gunner was seen by the Tanduay brass as a way to boost Alab’s bench. The third overall pick in the 2006 PBA Rookie Draft was also seen visiting the team during Alab’s home game against the Westsports Malaysia Dragons last January 3.
Tanduay had been named as the team’s name sponsor prior to the tournament. Besides being name partner, Lawrence Chongson, a Tan confidant, is also sitting on the sidelines as team consultant.
Alapag and Alab are believed to be ready for thi,s as they are currently in talks with multiple companies from the Manny V. Pangilinan group. A source added that Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation have shown interest in backing the team.
Currently, Alab is fourth in the standings with a 5-4 record, two games behind third running Mono Vampire. Alab will next face the Saigon Heat on Sunday, January 28.
Alab is in its second campaign in the ASEAN Basketball League. Carrying a loaded roster that is backstopped by Justin Brownlee and Renaldo Balkman, while being led by reigning Local Most Valuable Player Bobby Ray Parks, Jr. and veterans Dondon Hontiveros and Josh Urbiztondo, the team’s payroll is much higher compared to last season’s campaign.
Team manager Charlie Dy refused to make a comment regarding the matter on Wednesday evening.
