Magnolia gets Jerrick Balanza in trade with Converge

Jerrick Balanza is Magnolia-bound. PBA Images (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY—Jerrick Balanza is moving to Magnolia after the team agreed with Converge in a trade for him.

In a rare nighttime announcement by the PBA on Thursday, Balanza will now shore up the Hotshots' wing rotation.

The FiberXers did not get an active player in return, but they got a piece for the future through the Hotshots' second-round pick for the upcoming draft tentatively scheduled on July 14.

This means Converge now has four picks through the first two rounds of the draft, three in the second round alone, with their first-round selection very likely being the first pick unless the team makes a miracle run to the Philippine Cup quarterfinals.

On the other hand, Balanza could get more playing time with Magnolia, especially with Rome Dela Rosa and Aris Dionisio hurt.

Balanza, who is averaging 2.7 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game six games into the PBA Philippine Cup, will likely make his debut as a Hotshot on Sunday when they take on the Phoenix Fuel Masters at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

Interestingly enough, Phoenix will first take on Converge on Friday night at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

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