MANILA – Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots have bolstered their front line with the acquisition of William Navarro from NorthPort Batang Pier in a two-team, three-player trade.
In a deal approved Tuesday, Magnolia received the 6-foot-6 Navarro in exchange for veterans Calvin Abueva, Jerrick Balanza, and the Hotshots’ second-round pick in the upcoming PBA Season 51 Rookie Draft.
Navarro, a former Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles big man, is expected to infuse youth and versatility into Magnolia’s aging frontcourt in the ongoing 2025 PBA Philippine Cup.
He has been a standout for the Batang Pier this conference, averaging 20.57 points, 10.57 rebounds, 1.86 assists, and 1.14 steals per game.
Meanwhile, Abueva and Balanza are expected to bring experience and depth to NorthPort’s rotation.
The 37-year-old Abueva is averaging 8.38 points and 5.38 rebounds this conference, while Balanza saw limited minutes under Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero.
Victolero, in a statement sent to Panay News, stressed that it was not easy letting go one of the team’s crucial pieces in Abueva.
“Trading Calvin was one of the toughest decisions we’ve had to make. He’s been an integral part of our team for the last 4 years — not just through his performance on the court, but also with his energy and dedication,” said Victolero.
“Iba kasi ‘yung energy ni Calvin, alam nating lahat ‘yan. He gave everything for this team, and we’re deeply grateful for his contributions,” he added. “That said, we also have to think about the future of the team.”
“Bringing in a young, up-and-coming talent like Navarro is a step we believe na kailangan na naming gawin to strengthen our team and keep us competitive moving forward,” he further said. “Minsan kasi you’re forced to make hard choices — not because you want to, but because you need to.”
Magnolia last won a championship in the 2018 Governors’ Cup and is hoping the addition of Navarro can help end their title drought./PN
