If Mark Barroca Is Really Open to Leaving Magnolia, These Are the 3 Teams That Should Make a Trade Call
Mark Andy Barroca has been the heart and soul of Magnolia for over a decade. A seven-time PBA champion, Finals MVP, and one of the league’s most respected two-way guards, he has defined the Hotshots’ identity during their numerous deep playoff runs.
But if the recent trade rumors are to be believed — suggesting that Barroca may be quietly exploring a change of scenery — then his situation just became one of the biggest stories of the offseason.
While Magnolia hasn’t confirmed anything, some fans and insiders are already reading between the lines. If the 38-year-old veteran is truly entertaining the idea of a move, here are the three teams that should be first in line to call:
#3. Terrafirma Dyip
If — or when — Terrafirma is sold to a new owner, the new leadership will likely want to hit the ground running. That means no more building through the draft and hoping for the best. It means getting winners who know how to stabilize a team.
Barroca is a proven floor general with championship DNA. He’s not just a locker room leader — he still plays at a high level, especially in crunch time. For a rebranded Terrafirma aiming to shed its losing reputation, Barroca can be the foundation of a competitive culture.
#2. TNT Tropang Giga
TNT’s recent struggles in the Philippine Cup have exposed a glaring weakness: they need a consistent, high-IQ point guard who can both organize and close.
Barroca is exactly that. With Mikey Williams’ situation still uncertain and no long-term successor at the 1 spot in place, Barroca would fill a massive hole right away. He’d be the perfect leader for TNT’s veteran-laden roster, especially if they want to stay in contention for the grand slam.
More importantly, he knows how to complement stars like Calvin Oftana and RR Pogoy without dominating the ball. It’s a seamless fit.
#1. Northport Batang Pier
Northport has assembled one of the most exciting young cores in the league. With players like Arvin Tolentino, Will Navarro, and Joshua Munzon showing flashes of brilliance, the future is bright. But the team lacks structure — especially in the backcourt.
Mark Barroca would bring exactly what they need: a stabilizing veteran presence who can steer the ship and teach the young guns how to win.
He wouldn’t be a long-term solution, but in the short term, he could be the mentor and leader that accelerates Northport’s rise from fun-but-frustrating to real contenders. It’s a perfect balance — Barroca gets to lead a promising group, and the Batang Pier get the direction they sorely need.
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