Pacquiao to juggle PBA, ABL stints

MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao is planning to fit his busy schedule alternating playing for Mahindra in the PBA and another team, Pacman-Powerfit Agilas, in the Asean Basketball League unfolding on October 28.

"Yes, boss will play several games," said Agilas coach Bien Orillo in Tuesday's PSA Forum at the Shakey's Malate referring to Pacquiao, who is on his way to recovering from his right shoulder injury as he was already reportedly playing basketball recently.

Orillo, however, said Pacquiao will miss the Agilas' game against the Saigon Heat on October 29 in Davao and Thailand on October 31 in Malaysia but will finally see action on Nov. 4 when they play Saigon again in General Santos City.

"He (Pacquiao) will play on Nov. 4 in Gensan, that's 90-percent sure," said Orillo.

Aside from Pacquiao, the team will also be composed of former PBA star Willie Miller and imports Jamal Warren of Panama and former University of the East import Charles Mammie of Sierra Leone.

Also expected to get a roster spot with the Agilas are Jondan Salvador, Val Acuna, Leo Najorda, Carlo Sharma and Nico Elorde, a former Ateneo standout who was drafted by KIA but was recently dropped.

Ex-pro Zaldy Realubit was appointed coach.

Orilla said Pacquiao, who is the playing coach of Mahindra, could juggle from playing in both leagues.

"If he's playing for the Agilas, he will be put in the reserve list of Mahindra and vice versa," said Orilla.