There may be a cloud of uncertainty surrounding Jonathon Simmon’s future with NLEX but head coach Frankie Lim is ready to embrace it amidst the NBA veteran’s contract issues that could cut short his PBA stint.
Simmons, boasting the most impressive resume among this year’s cast of imports, was reportedly being sought by his team in the Chinese Basketball Association to sign for a more lucrative contract.
The veteran forward was even questionable ahead of the Road Warriors debut game against the Blackwater Bossing if not for Simmons getting a last minute clearance to formally join the team.
“I was pretty confident he would play and it was a big push for us and Sims is not a good player but a great player. He knows how to play. He knows when to shoot, when to pass and swerte kami to have him,” Lim said of Simmons who did strut his caliber with 32 points, nine rebounds and seven assists.
Lim bared that he was aware of Simmons’ contract situation although he asked him if he could honor his contract to NLEX and play for a couple of more games before going back to China.
“One thing I like about Simmons, honest siya sa'kin, diretso siya sa akin and I really appreciate that. Noong sinabi niya sa akin na he has to go to China to play, sabi ko finish first your contract here, maybe you can give us four wins before you leave,” shared Lim.
All is not lost however for Lim and the Road Warriors as there could still be a chance for Simmons to stay with the team but NLEX is nonetheless already preparing for any eventuality.
“I can't stop him, malaking pera yung involved, you just can't stop him pero meron ding chance na he might stay longer that's what I was told kanina,” said Lim.
“Medyo mahirap lalo kung gustong gusto mo yung import. Mahirap, masakit but life goes on. Kailangan marunong ka mag maneobra ng mga ganung situation and we cannot stop him from leaving. Just get another one yung lang yung solusyon dun,” he added.