MPBL: MVP Banal joins Nueva Ecija

Nueva Ecija scored a big one by signing former Bacoor Striker Gab Banal for next season's Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).

"It's a very big coup for us," said Rice Vanguards coach Charles Tiu, who handled Banal in the past in Mighty Sports and Go for Gold. "He was a former MVP in our league and is a very good leader."

"His work ethic is tremendous and he can do so many different things offensively, giving us versatility," he continued about the 6-foot-3 swingman.

"He’s one guy we’ve always wanted and finally it can happen."

Banal, who spent his first 2 years in the league with Bacoor City, is expected to boost Nueva Ecija which posted a 10-20 record in the last season, the Lakan Cup.

During the Datu Cup, Banal averaged 18.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 6.4 assists and won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) plum. The Strikers made it to the semis but were swept by Davao Occidental in the South semis.

In the Lakan Cup, Banal had averages of 13.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1 steal per contest, once again leading Bacoor to the semis.

Banal, however, missed Games 2 and 3 of the Strikers' series against Basilan due to a sprained left MCL. The Steel ended up advancing to the division finals.

Banal remains grateful to Bacoor City for the 2 years he spent there.

"Thank you for two great years of fun memories and experiences," the 29-year-old said. "Thank you Chaye Cabal-Revilla and Cong Strike B. Revilla for treating me as your own. Thank you to the awesome people of Bacoor for your undying support."

"Bacoor City will always be in my heart."

Also signing with Nueva Ecija is homegrown Edzel Mag-isa, formerly of Muntinlupa. The 6-foot-5 big man averaged 9.9 points and 5.7 rebounds last season.

(For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website).