Hotshots net Abueva in surprise deal

MANILA, Philippines — It’s the turn of Phoenix and Magnolia to make their big move on the trading floor.

The Fuel Masters yesterday shipped do-it-all forward Calvin Abueva to the Hotshots in exchange for Chris Banchero and two draft picks in a deal that came as a surprise to many.

Phoenix let go of Abueva, who made a smashing comeback from his 16-month suspension in last year’s PBA Philippine Cup bubble, two months after signing “The Beast” to a fresh three-year contract.

Aside from combo guard Banchero, the Fuel Masters also acquired Magnolia’s rights to the sixth overall pick in the talent-rich Rookie Draft on March 14 as well as the latter’s second-round rights (18th overall). The Hotshots received Phoenix’ first-round pick (10th overall), in addition to Abueva.

“It’s a win-win situation for both teams,” Magnolia coach Chito Victolero told The STAR after getting the PBA’s approval on the trade.

“For us, we need the caliber of Calvin, who will fill up the position that’s been missing in our team. For (Phoenix) coach Topex (Robinson), he needs a combo guard like Chris who can play point guard or off guard and help Matthew (Wright),” he added.

Abueva’s entry paves the way for his reunion with Ian Sangalang. The duo formed the cornerstone of San Sebastian’s NCAA-winning team in 2009, along with the third member of the “Pinatubo Trio” in Ronald Pascual.

“I’m very excited to see Ian and Calvin together. I know what they can do as I was coaching Mapua during their time. They’ve known each other for so long and they have great chemistry,” said Victolero.

The Hotshots mentor said the energetic Abueva should fit right into the squad’s defense-oriented system.

“I believe he won’t take long to adjust to the system we run, especially our pressure defense,” said Victolero, who looks to make the most of Abueva’s characteristic hustle plays.

Phoenix, which fought to get Abueva reinstated for the bubble play, said it wasn’t an easy decision to release him.

“He has been through thick and thin with Phoenix,” team manager Paolo Bugia said. “Yet at the same time, we are excited to acquire a first-round pick from a very deep draft together with Chris Banchero, who is a superstar in his own right.”