In this June 4, 2009, file photo, Los Angeles Lakers center DJ Mbenga (28) of the Democratic Republic of Congo runs down court against the Orlando Magic during the second half of Game 1 of the NBA basketball finals in Los Angeles. AP
MANILA, Philippines — Former Los Angeles Laker D.J. Mbenga could don an Alaska jersey in the coming PBA Commissioner’s Cup — but only if he agrees to accept the Aces’ offer.
Coach Luigi Trillo, who remained upbeat despite his squad’s exit in the semifinals against Talk N’ Text Friday night, hopes he could bring the 32-year-old Belgian center here in the Philippines to help Alaska.
The seven-foot center Mbenga was part of the Lakers back-to-back title haul, and Alaska could certainly use his presence inside.
The only problem is, they’re far apart when it comes to Mbenga’s asking price.
“We want D.J. Mbenga, but he’s asking for too much,” said Trillo in an interview following the 78-83 setback. “We already gave him an offer sheet. We hope he could accept it.”
Trillo, though, already has other names in mind that could be Alaska’s reinforcement next conference, saying, “we want someone who wants to be here.”
Meanwhile, If they couldn’t get that All-Filipino Cup trophy, then San Mig Coffee would do all it takes to defend their title in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
And it begins with the unrelenting quest to make sure they get Denzel Bowles back in tow.
The Mixers’ head coach Tim Cone said on Thursday they were still trying to sort out Bowles’ contract as he recently suited up in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
Cone, though, revealed that they are not looking at other options because the 2011-2012 Commissioner’s Cup Best Import is the only one they want.
The unlimited height conference kicks off on February — barely a month after the PBA Philippine Cup champion has been decided.