There are several mixed signals being relayed from the PBA's front office to the trenches of NorthPort, including from the owners of Pureblends. Is the 13-year old NorthPort in the process of being sold or not?
It was reported by SPIN.ph's Gerry Ramos a few days ago that NorthPort and Pureblends agreed on the PhP 90-million sale. It was followed by a report the day after that the PBA board has discussed the proposed sale but deferred action. The reason: some financial documents needed to go under careful scrutiny.
When asked about the moratorium on trades, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial told SPIN.ph, "Automatic na 'yon," "Once nag-declare ang team na may bibili or ibebenta na, wala na papayagan na trades."
So, why in the world that the PBA management approved the three-team, three-player trade involving Converge, Phoenix and NorthPort a few days ago? It suprised many coaches and made some critics suspect some irregularity is happening.
The deal got a green light last 4 September and it had Jeo Ambohot going from Converge to NorthPort, the signing rights to Larry Muyang going from Phoenix to Converge, and Evan Nelle moving from NorthPort to Phoenix.
The deal looks fair. All teams involved got what they need. However, that's not the point. What happened to the moratorium? Does it apply only to Terrafirma, which is also being eyed by another company?
So many questions and the PBA is not forthcoming with answers. The situation became murky after what transpired the following days until the PBA Draft Day last 7 September.
Former NorthPort team governor Eric Arejola reportedly moved to Magnolia, while University of Santo Tomas team manager Waiyip Chong is taking his act to Terrafirma, which also has to announce its new team governor after Bobby Rosales stepped down from his post.
With Batang Pier coach Bonnie Tan set to stay with Pureblends once the sale of the franchise before official, sources said Pido Jarencio, the former NorthPort team manager, is also bound for the Terrafirma front office in a still unknown position. Terrafirma already had former NorthPort coaches Jeff Napa and Jared Jarencio as part of their management.
Northport doesn't have a governor right now and it was evident when the team selected Chris Koon at No. 4 overall. However, sources said there was a representative from Pureblends who joined the group in the table as "observer."
Questions abound, but hopefully, answers will follow in the coming days. PBA fans deserve that.
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