PBA Import Highlights: Magnolia chose a recent NBA player!

 Magnolia is gearing up to unveil a fresh addition to their lineup for the upcoming 2023-24 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

The Hotshots have successfully secured Tyler Bey as their import for the opening conference of the season, a confirmation conveyed by head coach Chito Victolero.

Initially eyeing a return by Nick Rakocevic, the team had to pivot their plans due to his contractual obligations with Zhejiang in the Chinese Basketball Association. Nevertheless, Magnolia encountered a smooth transition in their search for a replacement when they crossed paths with Bey, who coincidentally shares an agency with Rakocevic.

Rakocevic's firsthand insights about Bey's playing style, formed through their past matchups and familiarity, played a pivotal role in Magnolia's choice of the 25-year-old talent from Las Vegas.

Guided by Rakocevic's advice and bolstered by game footage, Magnolia finalized the decision to enlist Bey, who previously stood as the 36th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.

Head Coach Victolero expressed their conviction, stating, "We arrived at the conclusion that he's a good fit for us. He's a former Defensive Player of the Year in college and possesses versatility across multiple positions."

Bey's accolades include being recognized as the PAC-12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2020, accompanied by First Team All-Pac-12 honors the preceding year. Having transitioned into a seasoned professional, he has gained experience through his involvement with G-League teams like Long Island, Salt Lake City, and Rio Grande, as well as his tenure with Ironi Ness Ziona in Israel.

Standing tall at 6-foot-7, Bey's inclusion in the Hotshots' lineup augments the team's frontline flexibility. This enhanced roster now features notable names like Ian Sangalang, Calvin Abueva, and the notably improved James Laput.

I am a big fan of this signing. The guy is an absolute gem on the defensive end. If done right, Magnolia may have that defensive level that can catapult them to the championship!