Pumaren thinks Air21 youthful import is ‘pretty solid’

MANILA, Philippines—Based on his credentials, Air 21 coach Franz Pumaren thinks import Michael Dunigan is a “pretty solid player.”

But Pumaren has to see more of the 23-year-old before he could know for sure as the Express resume training for the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, which starts Feb. 8.

“He’ll be practicing for the first time later (Wednesday). I have no idea yet. But based on the recommendations by the scouts, he’s a pretty solid player,” said Pumaren in an interview with INQUIRER.net.

Dunigan suited up for University of Oregon in college before journeying to several leagues abroad and in the NBA.

He played with Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem in the Israeli Basketball Super League, BC Kalev/Cramo in Estonia and with the Peth Wildcats in the National Basketball League.

He also had a quick stint with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2012.

And Dunigan’s experience overseas, at such a young age, gives Pumaren assurance he’ll fare well against seasoned players in the league.

“He’s been playing overseas for the past how many years—in Europe and Australia,” said Pumaren. “With regard to experience, it’s already given that he can provide us what we’re looking for.”

And Pumaren, whose squad fell short in the quarterfinals last conference against eventual champion Talk ’N Text, needs Dunigan to do a little bit of everything.

“First of all, we need somebody that can play defense and somebody who can score,” said Pumaren.

Though he’s hasn’t seen a lot of Dunigan, Pumaren, though, believes he has the right tools.

“He’s young, he wants to prove something. He’s a competitor,” Pumaren finished.