Manuel perfect fit for NLEX

Vic Manuel won’t have a hard time fitting into the system of NLEX in the upcoming season of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

NLEX coach Yeng Guiao said the 33-year-old banger will have a crucial role in their system should they land him via a trade with Alaska ahead of the 46th season of the PBA.

Known for turning role players into superstars, Guiao said Manuel would fit perfectly into their big men rotation that already has Asi Taulava, JR Quiñahan, Raul Soyud, Anthony Semerad and Michael Miranda.

“Actually, I think Vic can really help because his skill set fits our system,” said Guiao, whose wards finished the recent Philippine Cup at ninth place with a 5-6 win-loss slate.

“It will depend on how motivated Alaska is in trading Vic. But we feel that he can be an asset.”

Manuel has been in the middle of trade talks after the Aces failed to offer him with a three-year contract without any clause.

Alaska coach Jeff Cariaso said their initial offer to Manuel was a two-year maximum deal with a clause for the second year, but the 6-foot-4 slotman didn’t respond.

Danny Espiritu, the agent who handles the career of Manuel, said the former Philippine School of Business Administration standout prefers to go other teams like NLEX, San Miguel or Phoenix.
Guiao stressed that their doors are open for the seasoned forward.

“We will be interested but, of course, it depends on the conditions that they propose but if there are reasonable conditions, then we are open.”

Guiao, however, admitted that the Aces have yet to reach out for a potential trade offer.

“There is none yet,” he said.