Alaska coach Jeffrey Cariaso and big man Vic Manuel. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Alaska head coach Jeffrey Cariaso bared that the franchise is doing everything in its power to keep star big man Vic Manuel and that the ball is now on the veteran’s court.
Cariaso, in a statement issued to PBA’s official website, said that the Aces offered Manuel a two-year maximum contract and disputed rumors that the franchise did not reach out to the disgruntled forward.
“I feel that it is my duty to share and clarify details that will complete the story. I met him last night (Friday) and he was able to share with me his concerns, plans and desires. He candidly expressed that his contract situation at almost 33-years-old, makes him constantly think about his family’s life after his career,” said Cariaso.
“Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that Alaska did not reach out to him. Alaska offered a two-year, maximum deal with a clause for the second year. The reason behind is completely explained to Vic and which like any other clause, considering the player’s history with the team.”
It’s been reported that Manuel is looking to get traded with several teams already expressing interest in the 6-foot-4 power forward.
Manuel, the ninth overall pick of the 2012 Draft, has been with Alaska since 2014 after spending his first two years in the league with Globalport, Meralco, and Air21.
Cariaso said that he, and his assistant coaches, all understood Manuel’s sentiments as all of them also played in the PBA and had similar life experiences.
“Of course, this thought is perfectly understood not only by one, but three coaches in our team—Coach Danny (Ildefonso), Coach Tony (Dela Cruz) and I—as we were all former players. It is on this note that I’d like to set the record straight,” said Cariaso.
He added that Alaska’s management signified its desire to re-sign Manuel and already met with the players agent Danny Espiritu on December 26, the first day of negotiations, five days before the big man’s contract expired.
Then on Dec. 31, Alaska followed up on the offer to which Manuel’s camp curtly replied that the player is still going over it.
“I will keep the details private to maintain respect. As always, I reminded him that doing things the right way will always be the best way — that honesty, integrity, and honor must never wither as we discuss plans while understanding each other’s situation, but all options were discussed,” said Cariaso.