Cariaso: Heruela could be ‘blessing in disguise’ at Alaska

Brian Heruela. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Alaska head coach Jeff Cariaso is upbeat about the acquisition of veteran guard Brian Heruela, who sweetened the deal that sent Vic Manuel to Phoenix.

Heruela wasn’t part of the initial offer by the Fuel Masters and was only included in the package upon the PBA’s request in order for the trade to push through.

“Brian was an add on requested by the PBA to formalize the trade,” Cariaso wrote on Twitter Tuesday.

“Because he wasn’t part of the original offer, he may end up being a blessing in disguise for us. Great kid with tremendous worth ethic.”

https://twitter.com/thejet_22/status/1364100396247998464

But it remains to be seen how Heruela fits into Alaska’s system with the Aces already having a loaded backcourt.

The 31-year-old Heruela was a third-round pick by Blackwater in the 2014 PBA Draft, but despite being a late selection, Heruela emerged as one of the biggest steals in the draft.

He averaged 10.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.5 steals in 26 games during his first year with the Elite.

But burly guard’s stint at Blackwater didn’t last long. He spent his next three seasons with San Miguel Beer where he was part of four title runs before being dealt again and bouncing around the league.