The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is buzzing with rumors as the Ginebra San Miguel franchise sets its sights on acquiring David Murrell, the high-flying Fil-Am who recently parted ways with sister team Magnolia. But the burning question remains: Did Magnolia make a costly error by letting go of Murrell in favor of Jerrick Balanza?
Barring any last-minute turbulence, PBA slam dunk champion David Murrell is poised to take his aerial acrobatics to the Gin Kings. A confidential source revealed that the Office of the Commissioner has issued a memo to nine non-SMC (San Miguel Corporation) teams, notifying them of Ginebra’s intent to pick up the 27-year-old forward off waivers from Magnolia.
However, there’s a catch. League rules prohibit Murrell from signing with Ginebra due to their “commonly-owned” status with Magnolia. The “exercise notice” has given the other member teams until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 to express their interest in acquiring Murrell and potentially voiding the Ginebra transaction.
Jerrick Balanza, the player who indirectly triggered this drama, has had a lackluster start with Magnolia. His accumulated stats in the first two games include a mere 2 points, a 1/8 field goal percentage, 1 rebound, and 0 assists. Meanwhile, David Murrell, if unleashed by the right team, could be a game-changer. His athleticism, versatility, and slam dunk prowess make him an exciting prospect.
Let’s rewind to last April. Murrell was part of a trade deal that sent him and Abu Tratter to Magnolia in exchange for Adrian Wong and the Hotshots’ first-round pick in the 2023 PBA Rookie Draft. The FiberXers used that 10th pick to draft former Ateneo guard BJ Andrade. While Andrade has shown promise, Murrell’s limited playing time at Magnolia raises eyebrows.
Despite injuries sidelining Hotshots mainstays Rome Dela Rosa and Aris Dionisio, Murrell found himself logging a paltry 5.78 minutes across just two games during the PBA Philippine Cup. His potential remains untapped, and Ginebra sees an opportunity to harness it.
As the clock ticks toward the deadline, the PBA awaits the decisions of the other teams. Will any of them step up to challenge Ginebra’s claim on David Murrell? If not, the high-flying forward will spread his wings in the land of the Gin Kings. Magnolia’s gamble with Balanza may have inadvertently paved the way for Murrell’s redemption. Only time will tell if this move pays off for both teams involved.
Recent PBA Free Agency: PBA Free Agency: Top 3 teams that should sign David Murrell!
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