Chia, Gelig, Canlas join PBL teams

Ex-pros Gec Chia, Nino Gelig and Eric Canlas are heading back to the Philippine Basketball League.

Released by their respective PBA teams, Chia, Gelig and Canlas refused to hang up their sneakers yet, finding separate takers in the PBL which opens another season on March 25 at the San Andres Gym.

Chia has joined Harbour Centre, Gelig signed up with Teletech while Canlas inked with Hapee Toothpaste.

Chia, who played for Coca-Cola in the pros, will rejoin former Ateneo teammate LA Tenorio along with ex-rival Joseph Yeo at the Port Masters’ fold three years after leaving the PBL.

The former Blue Eagle was part of the Ateneo-Nenaco squad under coach Joel Banal that bested Blu Detergents, 3-1, for the 2002 PBL crown.

Chia’s best moments, however, came when he scored two crucial baskets in Ateneo’s dramatic come-from-behind Final Four victory over University of the East on their way to the 2002 UAAP cage crown.

Gelig, released by Talk n Text, was part of the Hapee team that won a title in 2003 while the 6-foot-10 Canlas, a former San Miguel Beer player, figured in several title conquests of Welcoat Paints.

"We’re very fortunate to have (Gec) Chia. I’m sure he’ll be of big help this conference because of his experience and defense," said Harbour Centre mentor Jorge Gallent.

Aside from Chia, Gallent said they also picked up another former PBA player in Allan Gamboa from the dispersal draft.

Canlas is one of the three new players acquired by the Teeth Sparklers with the other two being Christian Guevarra, formerly of Welcoat, and rookie Frank Nailon.

Canlas’ entry beefed up Hapee’s frontcourt composed of Philippine Christian U standouts Gabby Espinas, Beau Belga, Ian Garrido and Joel Solis.

"He’s a welcome addition," said Hapee coach Junel Baculi, referring to the former St. Francis of Assisi standout.