Chris Banchero’s next move over the next few days or weeks is expected to create plenty of anticipation with his contract with Phoenix Super LPG set to expire after Monday, Jan. 31.
Banchero has an option to become an unrestricted free agent where he can entertain offers by any team that wishes to get his services.
The Fuel Masters are hoping to sign the all-around guard to a new deal, but there have been speculations that Banchero may draw the interest of any team from either San Miguel Corporation or the MVP Group.
He had been playing well as of late for the Fuel Masters prior to the stoppage of the season-ending Governors’ Cup due to the COVID-19 encountered earlier this month, averaging 18.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 2.4 steals in five games.
Phoenix can’t afford to lose Banchero at this point of the conference since his usual effort on the defensive end has been complemented with his high-scoring numbers.
Three players have already signed with other teams under the new unrestricted free agency ruling eligible for players drafted starting in 2014.
Rodney Brondial left Alaska for San Miguel Beer, John Pinto joined Barangay Ginebra instead of re-signing with Meralco while Matt Ganuelas-Rosser declined Terrafirma’s extension offer to ink a deal with TNT.
Players drafted from that 2014 class and beyond can become unrestricted free agents once they have expired contracts after their seventh season in the league.