MANILA — Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings have bolstered their roster for the PBA’s landmark 50th season by signing prized rookie Sonny Estil, while also cutting ties with big man Mario Barasi Jr., who is now headed to NorthPort Batang Pier.
Head coach Tim Cone confirmed Estil’s entry into the Gin Kings’ fold, noting that the 6-foot-3 forward from Agusan del Sur is expected to suit up in the Philippine Cup pending clearance from his MPBL squad, the Pampanga Giant Lanterns.
“We signed Sonny,” Cone said in a text message to Panay News, though he did not disclose the contract’s length. “He will be ready to go (for the Philippine Cup).”
Estil was Ginebra’s first-round pick and is touted to inject youthful energy into a team determined to rebound from back-to-back runner-up finishes and a semifinal exit in Season 49.
At the same time, Cone confirmed the release of center Barasi, opening the door for him to try out with NorthPort.
“We also released Mario to NorthPort and tendered John but allowed him to return to Perpetual and will revisit him at the end of the NCAA season,” Cone added, referring to John Cedrick Abis, who opted to rejoin the University of Perpetual Help Altas for the NCAA wars despite receiving a Ginebra offer.
The Gin Kings are reshuffling their lineup as they aim for no less than a championship in the league’s golden season./PN
