MANILA — The PBA offseason heated up after the NLEX Road Warriors, Meralco Bolts, and Converge FiberXers finalized the framework of a three-team trade that will significantly reshape their rosters, highlighted by NLEX’s acquisition of high-scoring guard Deschon Winston and veteran wing Kevin Racal.
The Road Warriors agreed to send forward Javee Mocon to Meralco and promising young big man Jonnel Policarpio to Converge as part of the multi-player swap, pending final approval from the PBA commissioner’s office.
In return, NLEX will bolster its perimeter firepower with Winston — the ninth overall pick in the 2023 rookie class — and add championship-tested experience in Racal, who has logged over a decade in the league.
“We are truly grateful to Javee and Jonnel for their professionalism and commitment during their time with NLEX. Javee brought leadership to our locker room, while Jonnel showed great potential and energy from day one,” said NLEX Road Warriors team governor Ronald Dulatre.
“We thank them for their contributions to the Road Warriors and wish them nothing but success in the next chapter of their careers,” he added.
Mocon, who joined NLEX in September 2024 via trade with Phoenix, now provides Meralco with a versatile forward known for his defense and hustle. Policarpio, the sixth overall pick in the 2024 PBA Draft, gives Converge a young frontcourt prospect with upside.
The FiberXers will also receive guard Kurt Reyson and a future draft selection from Meralco to deepen their backcourt and build long-term assets. Reyson was a second-round selection in the Season 49 Draft.
Winston’s arrival is expected to immediately impact NLEX’s offensive schemes, bringing scoring punch and playmaking ability, while Racal offers veteran savvy and perimeter stability. Racal previously suited up for Alaska from 2015 until the franchise’s exit in 2022 before continuing his career with Converge.
The trade awaits final review and approval from the PBA commissioner’s office before it becomes official./PN
