Coach Norman Black has no doubt in his mind that the Meralco Bolts will only get better with the acquisition of Raymond Almazan.
The Bolts' search for a legitimate big man ended on Tuesday when the league allowed Rain or Shine to deal Almazan to Meralco in exchange for the Bolts' 2019 and 2021 first round picks.
The absence of a dependable big man has become a problem for the Bolts, who couldn't matchup with big teams.
"We've gone quite a few years without a big man who can man the paint, particularly in the All-Filipino conference," Black said after Meralco's 87-80 win over Alaska in a tune-up match held Tuesday at the Hoops Gym in Mandaluyong.
"Almazan is one of the best bigs in the country and he gives us some size. Hopefully he can come in and help us inside the paint because he's a good shot blocker, he's a good rebounder and he can score around the basket," he added.
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Black though was quick to temper expectations.
"I will say that he'll definitely help us get better, but we'll see what happens," he said.
Rain or Shine reportedly decided to part ways with the six-year center because of his strained relationship with coach Caloy Garcia.
The Bolts, it turns out are just too willing to give up their future, to get their problem fixed and get immediate result.
"We're giving up a premium for him, obviously, but we want to win now, and we want to get a guy who can help us win now," said Black. (JT)
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