MANILA, Philippines – Philippine men's basketball team Gilas Pilipinas is looking to finalize its contract with naturalized import Andray Blatche this week, team manager Butch Antonio said Wednesday, March 16.
Antonio said both parties have already come to terms and it's 99% done.
"Pirma na lang (We just need signatures)," he said. "We're hoping to finalize it within the week or over the next few days. We are in touch with the handlers of Andray. We've come to terms and hopefully we seal the deal."
Antonio said the initial target date for the big man's arrival is May 15, just as the 2016 PBA Commissioner's Cup is about to end and Gilas preparations can go into full swing ahead of the 2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in July.
"This (arrival date) can change, based on coach Tab's (Baldwin) plans. It's also good to have him when the players are ready," Antonio said.
Unlike last year for the FIBA Asia Championship, Antonio is confident Blatche will be in better shape for Gilas. The 6-foot-11 former Brooklyn Net will be coming off another stint in the Chinese Basketball Association.
"We've taken that up with them. He knows. Even his handlers say that and they've brought that up. They're confident because he's playing now, he's putting up good numbers," said Antonio.
"He's going to be doing training from the time he gets home from China all the way up to meeting us in May. I think he'll be in better shape than last year." — Rappler.com