By REYNALD MAGALLON
Juan Gomez De Liano is eager to repay the trust of Converge which did everything in its power to move up to the draft board and be in the position to draft him as the second overall pick.
The FiberXers convinced the Phoenix Fuel Masters to a pick swap in the draft which also included sending sweet-shooting big man Bryan Santos as part of the trade package.
“Super excited to be part of a wonderful organization under Converge FiberXers, the staff, the management, teammates. Can’t wait to work with them and build something,” said Gomez De Liano.
The 25-year-old playmaker, who boasts a five-year overseas stint before making the leap to the PBA, is seen to be a vital piece that is expected to elevate a FiberXers team that already featured a potent core in Justin Arana, Justine Baltazar, Alec Stockton and Schonny Winston.
De Liano then revealed that he and the Converge camp already had initial talks prior to the draft and laid out their plans of drafting him as well as his role in the future of the FiberXers who are looking to get over the hump and contend for a title.
The FiberXers did have a decent run last season, reaching as far as the quarterfinals but just couldn’t get the job done and reach the next level.
“I met with them a week ago. I love their plan for me. We are all on the same page. Our goal is to win a championship. I can’t wait to represent Converge,“ said University of the Philippines standout.
“I can’t ask for more. I’m blessed to be chosen by Converge. I know the team owner, the coaching staff, all the bosses, I won’t let them regret their pick. I’m just going to do my best,” said Juan GDL.
