The PBA rumor mill has been spinning a curious tale lately: Magnolia Chicken Timplados reportedly had the chance to snag Phoenix’s breakout star Evan Nelle, but they politely declined. The reason? Coach LA Tenorio and the Hotshots' front office are reportedly prioritizing a "big man" to shore up their frontline.
On paper, the logic holds up. In a league that currently feels like an arms race for height, "Supply and Demand" dictates that everyone wants a center. But for Magnolia, a team that already boasts 6’10” James Laput and the veteran 6’7” Ian Sangalang, is the need for another big really greater than the need for a high-IQ, pass-first floor general like Nelle?
Nelle would have provided a perfect contrast to the offensively magnificent but smaller Jerom Lastimosa. While Lastimosa brings the sizzle, Nelle brings the grind. If Magnolia is dead-set on adding size instead, they need to target specific archetypes that actually elevate their ceiling.
Here are the top 3 big man targets Magnolia should be looking at right now:
#3. Moala Tautuaa (San Miguel Beermen)
The "Big Brother" Connection
If Magnolia is looking for a veteran who can provide immediate championship impact, they should look no further than their SMC "big brother," San Miguel. With the Beermen recently activating Justin Patton and leaning heavily on June Mar Fajardo, the minutes for Moala Tautuaa might be ripe for a relocation.
The Fit: Moala is a versatile 6’8” force who can play both power forward and center. He brings a level of physicality and playoff experience that would perfectly complement Sangalang.
The Challenge: Trading within the conglomerate is common, but it usually requires a significant asset going the other way. If Magnolia can pull this off, they instantly become the most physically imposing frontline in the league.
#2. Christian David (Blackwater Bossing)
The High-Potential Hybrid
If the Hotshots aren't looking for a "giant" but rather a high-upside athlete who can guard multiple positions, Christian David is the name. Currently with the Blackwater Bossing, David is a 6’6”-6’7” wing-big hybrid with a massive wingspan and a pedigree from the Canadian developmental system.
The Fit: David is the "modern" big man target. He has the lateral quickness to survive on the perimeter and the length to protect the rim. For an LA Tenorio-led system that values versatility and defense, David is a "moldable" asset that could grow into a cornerstone.
The Outlook: He’s still scratching the surface of his potential. Trading for him now is a "buy-low" move that could pay off massively in Season 51.
#1. Bryan Santos (Phoenix Fuel Masters)
The Spacer and Stretch Threat
If Magnolia is looking for a way to open up the paint for Lastimosa and Sangalang, Bryan Santos is the proper target. Standing at 6’5”, Santos has quickly evolved into one of the most reliable "stretch" threats in the league during his time with Phoenix.
The Fit: Santos is a spacer. Period. He forces opposing bigs to step out to the perimeter, which is exactly what Magnolia needs to prevent teams from collapsing on Sangalang in the post.
The Synergy: Since Magnolia was already talking to Phoenix about Nelle, pivoting the conversation to Santos makes tactical sense. He provides the "size" they want without sacrificing the perimeter gravity that keeps an offense modern.
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