Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Ginebra has decided to make an import change days before the start of the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
Coach Tim Cone said on Friday that the Gin Kings have sent home Shane Edwards for big man Charles Garcia.
“We’ve decided to make a change in import,” he said in a text message. “We’re bringing in a 6-foot-10 big man in Charles Garcia who will arrive Saturday evening.”
Garcia, 29, last played for the Austin Spurs of the NBA G-League in the 2016-17 season, averaging 13.67 points, 5.22 rebounds, and 1.14 assists.
He will man the paint for the Gin Kings while Greg Slaughter is still recovering from an ankle injury.
“He’s a player I have scouted in the past,” said Cone.
It was an unceremonious end for the returning import Edwards, who was with Ginebra in its preseason buildup.
“When we first contracted Shane Edwards, we believed Greg would be healthy and available to play, and Shane could play alongside him,” said Cone. “But with Greg’s injury, we feel that we need someone to replace Greg rather than play alongside him.“
The Gin Kings still plan on parading Justin Brownlee later in the conference once he finishes his obligations with San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in the 2018 ASEAN Basketball League.
Ginebra opens its campaign in the second conference against Rain or Shine on April 29.