PBA: Why did Titan Ultra give up Chris Koon for Aris Dionisio?

Titan Ultra was in dire need of a veteran to complement stars Calvin Abueva and Joshua Munzon.

Magnolia's Aris Dionisio fit the bill.

That’s why the Giant Risers made a trade for the lanky forward even if that meant giving up No. 4 overall pick Chris Koon to the Hotshots five games into the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.

“I think, si Aris kasi is a veteran, one of the veterans. Siyempre, kailangan ng team namin is beterano,” said Titan Ultra head coach Johnedel Cardel after his squad finally returned to the win column via a 97-86 dispatching of Blackwater Wednesday, Nov. 6.

[RELATED STORY: PBA: Chris Koon 'shocked but happy' to play for Magnolia]

Upon arriving at Titan, Dionisio was informed of his role right away.

But after his first game with the new franchise, it is evident that the former St. Clare College star is still adjusting to playing with his new teammates.

He struggled with a 1-for-7 scoring from the field and committed four fouls, though he logged eight boards, two steals and an assist in more than 26 minutes of play.

“I talked to Aris. Sabi ko, ‘Hindi ka na rookie dito. Kailangan ko ang tulong mo,’” said Cardel.

Titan Ultra's fourth overall pick Chris Koon now plays for Magnolia. | Photo: PBA Images

Cardel has high hopes that Dionisio will fully understand what they’re trying to run and build at Titan sooner rather than later.

“[He needs] more games siguro. We have five more games. Sana makasilat ulit kami. Makuha namin ang mga panalo sa dapat naming talunin, makasilat kami sa mga malalakas. Hopefully, makapasok kami sa quarterfinals," said Cardel.

—

 Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.

He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.