ALASKA’S rugged forward Gabby Espinas has been traded to the GlobaPort Batang Pier in a move purportedly aimed to give the six-foot-four player more playing minutes.
In return, the Aces got the six-foot-six Noy Baclao and possible first-round pick in the 2007 Rookie Draft.
In a report by InterAksyon.com, Alaska board governor Dickie Bachmann explained the Aces decided to trade Espinas so he could showcase his skills.
“Basically it’s more of a playing time issue. We looked for a team that could give Gabby some playing time and with GlobalPort, he can get a lot of minutes as they need someone who can play the post,” said Bachmann in the report.
“We wish Gabby well and we hope he’ll have a good career with GlobalPort.”
Espinas has returned from a major foot injury and has struggled to buy playing time upon his return.
With Alaska, Espinas had to compete for playing minutes with Calvin Abueva and the emerging Vic Manuela.
“With Calvin there and Vic playing well plus an import playing the no. 3 and 4 spots, Gabby wasn’t able to see much action so it’s only best for him to get opportunity elsewhere,” added Bachmann in the report.
The Alaska executive believes that Espinas will give the Batang Pier the needed muscle in the paint.
“Gabby will give them a strong post presence. On our end, we may have a chance to get a top-five pick soon,” Bachmann said.
Epinas could see action with his new team when the Batang Pier take on the NLEX Road Warriors in today’s first game at the Cuneta Astrodome.