Kia confirms Pacquiao talks but nothing final yet

MANILA, Philippines - Columbian Autocar Corp. has confirmed talks with boxing icon Manny Pacquiao for his possible participation in the formation of Team KIA which debuts in the PBA next season.

CAC president and chief executive officer Ginia Domingo said in a statement that Pacquiao visited their Makati office Thursday to discuss the matter.

“We are both elated and excited at the possibility of our nation’s most popular and revered sports icon, Rep. Manny Pacquiao, becoming a part of Team KIA,” said Domingo.

“We will continue our discussions in the next few weeks and will announce our plans as soon as they are firmed up,” Domingo added.

On Thursday afternoon, Pacquiao announced in a TV interview that he’s joining KIA as playing assistant coach.

PBA coaches welcomed the possibility of the boxing world champ joining their circle.

They say it’s an even bigger treat to the fans if he comes in as a player.

“For sure, the PBA will be happy if he comes in in any capacity,” said Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, Pacquiao’s colleague in the House of Representatives.

“Hopefully, that idea becomes a reality. He’ll be a big added attraction in the PBA. It’s going to be a treat to the fans,” Guiao also said.

Talk n Text’s Norman Black, Globalport’s Pido Jarencio, San Miguel Beer’s Biboy Ravanes and Barangay Ginebra’s Jeff Cariaso expressed the same opinion.

“If he’s good enough to compete in the PBA, then why not,” said Black. “He certainly will draw in the crowd. It’s up to him and his team to decide if he’s good enough.”

“I’m sure everyone is looking forward to having the best boxer in the world to be part of the PBA. Maganda para sa PBA at para sa fans,” said Jarencio.

“It’s an interesting development, one we’ve never seen before,” said Ravanes. “I’m sure fans of the league will be excited to see Manny Pacquiao in action in a completely different sport.”

Cariaso, the incoming Ginebra coach, cautioned Pacquiao, though, that pro basketball is far different from recreational basketball and the sport of boxing.

“If he is serious in playing in the PBA, he will have to train longer and harder,” said Cariaso.

Cariaso believes Pacquiao has what it takes to compete. “If there is someone who has the work ethic, it’s Manny,” said Cariaso.