Ginebra adds point guard John Pinto

FILE — Former Meralco guard John Pinto. INQUIRER PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra addressed its point guard problem after it signed unrestricted free agent John Pinto to a three-year deal.

Pinto’s agent Danny Espiritu confirmed the development Saturday as the Gin Kings looked to strengthen its backcourt in the absence of the injured Stanley Pringle.

Pinto, who was drafted 19th overall in 2014, became an UFA on December 31 allowing him to sign with any team he wants.

The 5-foot-11 point guard was a steady presence for Meralco in 2021 Philippine Cup averaging 8.3 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in the conference.

He put up 9.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.0 steals in the two games for the Bolts in the Governors’ Cup.

Pinto is expected to help the LA Tenorio and Scottie Thompson in running the ship for the Gin Kings after Pringle suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee.