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Doesn't ring a Bell: Tigers bring in 3rd import in Fiesta Cup


Another losing season in the PBA Fiesta Cup is now staring at the embattled Coca-Cola Tigers' faces. But they’re not about to give up. Not yet.

The Tigers are making their final push to save their fading campaign by bringing in their third import this conference. John Williamson, a 6-foot-6 player from University of Cincinnati, will be the Tigers' new reinforcement after returning imports James Penny and Rashad Bell. After winning their first three games, the Tigers lost seven of their nine games, forcing management to make drastic changes either via the trading table or making import replacements. Coca-Cola board governor JB Baylon said the decision to replace Bell, a former Boston University standout who played two seasons in the PBA, has nothing to do with his attitude nor his failure to produce 40 points or more per outing. "Bell is a great guy. But we're searching for a younger version of Penny," said Baylon in a text message. Williamson, a lefty post-up player, is expected to bolster the Tigers' frontline anchored on veterans Asi Taulava and Dennis Espino. In the 2006-2007 season, Williamson averaged 13.5 points and seven rebounds per game for the Bearcats in the Big East Conference. In Poland, he put up numbers of 18 points and eight rebounds per game and averaged a more decent 23 points and nine rebounds per outing while playing in Sweden. Williamson is described as a long-armed, athletic post player, a tough defender and plays with a high basketball IQ. Coca-Cola is hoping that he is the right fit that could change the Tgers' fortunes in the final elimination round phase of the Fiesta Conference. "We’re working on the details of his contract. It was our assistant coach Alex Compton who recommended him and we hope he can be here Monday," said Coca-Cola mentor Bo Perasol. With a 5-9 record, the Tigers are hoping to turn things around in their remaining four games and hopefully boost their chances in the wildcard phase of the tournament. - JVP/Rey Joble, GMANews.TV
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