Air21 sends import Young home, brings in Forte

Air21 sent its ineffective import Keen Young back home and replace him with Jason Forte when the Express face the Alaska Aces on April 14. Express team manager and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez told GMANews.TV that the decision of replacing Young after failing to guide Air21 to an impressive start early this season. Air21 lost its first game, 92-87 against defending champion San Miguel then scored a 113-108 victory over Barako. They dropped their next two games, 100-96 against Coca-Cola and a lopsided 92-75 thrashing from reigning Philippine Cup titlists Derby Ace. Young’s replacement is Forte, who was supposed to suit up for Coca-Cola this conference until being replaced by James Penny. “Jason had a notable game during our tune up match against Talk ‘N Text," said Alvarez. “He will be given a two-week contract and then we will see if he fits our system." During Air21’s game against Derby Ace, Young was held to only 13 points. He was even scoreless in the first period and could only produce two points in the fourth much to the dismay of coach Yeng Guiao. Forte, a Euro League veteran, also played for the Yakima Sun Kings in the Continental Basketball Association where he had per game averages of 16.9 points and seven rebounds. According to US scouts, Forte possesses an extremely high basketball IQ that could rub on with his teammates and has good outside shooting skills. – GMANews.TV