PBA Trade Rumors: NLEX superstar wants out?

 

Robert Bolick Wants Out? Breaking Down the NLEX Trade Rumors

Snow Badua has once again sent shockwaves through the PBA rumor mill with his latest cryptic post:

"Hindi ito April Fools post.
Player wants to be traded ASAP.
He no longer wants his present coach.
Clue: Kamukha ni Redford White."

For those familiar with the league, the clue strongly points to Robert Bolick, whose resemblance to the late comedian Redford White has been a running joke among basketball fans.

If this is indeed about Bolick, then NLEX could be on the verge of losing their franchise player—and the fallout could be massive.

Trouble Between Bolick and Coach Jong Uichico?

This rumor isn’t coming out of nowhere. Snow Badua has previously hinted at growing friction between Bolick and NLEX head coach Jong Uichico.

Bolick signed a lucrative contract to return to the PBA last year after a short stint in Japan’s B.League. His arrival was supposed to signal NLEX’s rise as a serious contender, but despite his impressive individual performances, the team has not taken the leap expected of them.

If Bolick truly wants out, then it’s likely due to differences with Coach Jong—whether it’s playing style, leadership approach, or internal team dynamics.

Why Every Team Should Try to Trade for Bolick

If Bolick is on the trading block, then every team in the league should be lining up to acquire him.

At 28 years old, he is in his prime and remains one of the best guards in the PBA. He is a legit top-15 player, capable of:
✅ Scoring at an elite level (he has multiple 30+ point games in his career)
✅ Creating for teammates (one of the best passers among guards)
✅ Providing leadership on the floor

With that skill set, he can instantly elevate any team—whether it’s a contender looking for a final piece or a rebuilding squad in need of a star.

Possible Trade Destinations

If NLEX grants Bolick’s trade request, where could he go? Some possible destinations include:

🔴 Ginebra – Always in the mix for elite talent, but do they have the assets?
🔵 Meralco – A team in desperate need of an elite offensive weapon.
⚫ San Miguel – A powerhouse that could find a way to make room for him.
🟠 Phoenix – A dark-horse candidate with enough young assets to make a deal.

Of course, the trade mechanics will be tricky. NLEX will likely demand a high return in any deal, but if the relationship is beyond repair, they might be forced to accept a less-than-ideal offer just to move on.

Final Thoughts

The PBA landscape could drastically change if Robert Bolick forces his way out of NLEX. Whether or not this rumor materializes, it’s clear that there are underlying issues brewing within the Road Warriors.

If NLEX isn’t careful, they could end up losing a franchise cornerstone for minimal return—and that’s a mistake no team can afford to make.