Former PBA best import Chandler to return with Purefoods?

MANILA, Philippines – Is Marquin Chandler coming back to help Purefoods’ sagging campaign in the Motolite-PBA Fiesta Cup? That question swirled around Purefoods’ training camp after the TJ Giants suffered their third straight setback, a 110-90 loss to Rain or Shine last Saturday. Chandler is a one-time PBA best import winner and helped steer the Giants all the way to the finals of the Fiesta Conference in the 2005-06 season. Even the entry of new reinforcement Jhamar Thorpe could not rescue the slumping Giants, who couldn’t find the right solution to rediscover their winning ways. With Chandler now available after a fruitful stint in the Korean Basketball League (KBL), will Purefoods get him for a third tour of duty? Purefoods team manager Alvin Patrimonio, in an interview at Sports Radio, that options are open in getting Chandler’s services. “We are keeping our options open for Chandler. Let’s see what Thorpe has to offer since we still have a Thursday game." Chandler was the second best scorer in the KBL, averaging 25.6 points and sixth in the league in block shots (1.5). Thorpe, an import highly-recommended by former Manila Beer and Great Taste import Michael Young, had his debut game in Victoria City. He, however, failed to impress, but Patrimonio has a better explanation. “Thorpe has the potential. He was experiencing jetlag the last time he played for us. Let’s give him a chance," added Patrimonio, the only other PBA four-time most valuable player winner aside from Mon Fernandez. Thorpe will have to redeem himself in the Giants’ next game against the Coca-Cola Tigers Thursday at the Ynares Sports Complex in Pasig City. Aside from Thorpe, Purefoods also has a new face on the bench in George Gallent, a 13-time champion – six as Harbour Centre’s coach and seven while playing for the Tanduay Rhum Masters. According to Patrimonio, having Gallent as part of the coaching staff is a no-brainer. “Six consecutive championships in the PBL. It is no longer a question why he’s here with us." – GMANews.TV