Cruz, Elorde, Taha ink contract extensions with Batang Pier

NorthPort signed veteran forward Jervy Cruz and guards Nico Elorde and Paolo Taha to contract extension as part of its buildup for the 46th PBA season which starts in April.

The three were joined by their agent Danny Espiritu when they inked on the dotted line during a meeting with Batang Pier team manager Bonnie Tan on Tuesday.

They were the latest players retained by NorthPort after re-signing guards LA Revilla and Renzo Subido and forward Jonathan Grey several weeks ago.

Cruz played all 11 games for the Batang Pier in the PBA Philippine Cup bubble and averaged 6.2 points and 5.5 rebounds.

Elorde, likewise, suited up in all of NorthPort’s matches at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center in Pampanga, posting 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists.

Taha produced 8.9 points on 42-percent shooting with 2.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists. The former College of St. Benilde mainstay also made 11 appearances.

The Batang Pier are eager to rebound from a disappointing 1-10 record during last season’s lone conference, first by hoping to land a blue-chip player in the PBA Rookie Draft slated March 14.

NorthPort holds the second overall pick in the regular draft proceedings.