Cone says Christian Standhardinger wanted out

MANILA, Philippines — Barangay Ginebra badly needed to infuse fresh legs in its fold that it couldn’t wait for today’s PBA Season 49 Rookie Draft to get younger.

A day before the teams choose from 70 hopefuls, the Gin Kings made the big move of acquiring Terrafirma’s Stephen Holt and Isaac Go while unloading grizzled veterans Christian Standhardinger, 35, and Stanley Pringle, 37.

Not only that, the crowd darlings also acquired the No. 3 pick from the Dyip, putting themselves in a stronger  position to select a blue-chip freshman after Converge and Blackwater. The Dyip took the Gin Kings’ original position in the first round at 10th overall.

Cone said Standhardinger, Ginebra’s main man in Season 48, had wanted to switch teams as early as last year.

“He had stated to us a conference ago that he would prefer to play in a different system and under a different coach. No doubt, he loved his teammates and playing for the Ginebra fans, but he felt it was better to move on,” he said. 
Cone described Standhardinger as “one of the most professional players I’ve ever been around,” but when the latter sought a way out, there’s really no turning back.

“Once he requested a trade from the team, it was hard to step away from that. We looked for a trade but besides trading him for June Mar (Fajardo), who could you trade Christian straight up for?”

But Standhardinger clarified that he didn’t initiate the move.

“A year ago, I was open to being traded due to some dissatisfaction. However, after playing the whole season, I was keen on staying with Ginebra,” C-Stan said.

“Recently, during my exit meeting, coach Tim asked me if I was good to continue playing for him and the team. I said yes, and he expressed happiness to have me on board.”

He shared he was surprised when he got a call from Cone regarding his trade.

Cone said it will be different without Standhardinger in his lineup.

“We realize we’re taking a step back without Christian. He’s an awesome player and will make Terrafirma an immediate contender. In the meantime, we will continue our rebuild with younger players,” Cone said.

The leading candidate for Season 48 Rookie of the Year award, Holt is at his prime at 32 and should fortify the Ginebra backcourt while Scottie Thompson is still dealing with back issues. Go is 28 and provides a threat as a reliable stretch big.