Converge inked two former members of the defunct Alaska franchise to contracts as it continues to prepare for its maiden season in the PBA which starts in June.
Incoming sophomore Allyn Bulanadi and veteran Kevin Racal were signed by the FiberXers after meeting with assistant team manager Dickie Bachmann recently.
Bulanadi is coming off a short but solid rookie campaign with Alaska while Racal saw action in the PBA Governors’ Cup after missing the last two conferences with an ACL injury.
Playing eight games in the Governors’ Cup, Bulanadi averaged 6.3 points and 1.6 rebounds while Racal posted 2.3 points in 13 games for the Aces.
The two will join Jeron Teng, Ben Adamos and Taylor Browne in the group of ex-Aces with live contracts with Converge.
Those whose pacts expired after still in negotiations with Converge management which is hoping to make a splash in first go-around in the big league loop.
The PBA approved the sale of the Alaska squad to Converge last month, marking the end of the former’s 36-year tenure.
Team owner Dennis Anthony Uy expressed his commitment to put up a competitive lineup for the 47th season which opens June 5.
Ex-Aces coach Jeffrey Cariaso was retained to call the shots for the FiberXers, who are also looking to build up their roster through the draft.
Converge owns two first round picks which it inherited from Alaska in the PBA Draft slated May 15 at Robinsons Place Manila.