FedEx eyes Washington, Cardona

Gaining the rights for the top draft pick in a lottery versus Sta. Lucia Sunday night, FedEx coach Gerardo "Bong" Ramos said they will likely use it in picking versatile Fil-Am big man Anthony Washington or scoring machine Mark Cardona.

"At the moment, Washington is the best choice. He could fill in our need at the paint. But we’re also looking at a Mark Cardona-Renren Ritualo tandem anchoring our run-and-gun game," said Ramos.

"There could be other options. The coaching staff will talk about it. Of course, we’ll also consult with team manager Lito Alvarez," Ramos added.

FedEx could rebuild its lineup through the 2005 Draft set Aug. 14 with the Express owning no less than three first round picks. The team acquired Red Bull’s and Shell’s first round picks on recent trades.

Incidentally, the original order of the draft is FedEx then Sta. Lucia Realty, Coca-Cola, Purefoods, Red Bull, Alaska, Shell, Barangay Ginebra, San Miguel Beer and Talk n Text.

Ramos said their immediate need is a center with Jerry Codinera to become free agent on July 15 and Homer Se still recovering from an ACL injury.

"Washington is a 6-foot-7 player who can play the 3-4-5 positions kaya he’s the best choice at the moment," said Ramos.

After filling in their need at center spot, Ramos said they could tap in another big man or opt to beef up their backcourt.

"Happy naman ako kay Wynne (Arboleda) at maganda naman pamalit si Egay (Billones), pero maganda na rin siguro na may third guard ka," said Ramos, who considers Denok Miranda and Alex Cabagnot as good prospects.

Cabagnot is reportedly a 6-foot-1 guard who had a stint in the US NCAA. He’s yet to see action in local basketball scene but is qualified for outright entry in the PBA draft having been a Philippine passport holder.

At the moment, only seven players have applied for the draft. These are Washington, Cardona, Cabagnot, Miranda, Michael Holfer, Cesar Catli and Jake Agleron.