Alaska Head Coach Jeff Cariaso clarified that the Aces did reach out to veteran Vic Manuel even before the expiration of his contract contrary to earlier reports.
Alaska management met with Manuel’s representative Danny Espiritu, on December 26, 2020 to make known its desire to re-sign Manuel. Then on December 31 Alaska followed-up its offer.
“Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that Alaska did not reach out to him. Alaska offered a two-year, maximum deal with a clause for the second year. The reason behind is completely explained to Vic and which like any other clause, considering the player’s history with the team,” said Cariaso in a report on pba.ph.
The Alaska mentor said he met with Manuel last Friday evening to discuss what would be in Manuel’s and the team’s best interest going forward.
“I will keep the details private to maintain respect. As always, I reminded him that doing things the right way will always be the best way—that honesty, integrity, and honor must never wither as we discuss plans while understanding each other’s situation, but all options were discussed,” said Cariaso in the same report.
Manuel joined the league as the ninth overall pick in the 2012 PBA Draft. Manuel played for the GlobalPort, Meralco and Air21 Express before finding a home with the Aces.
Manuel scored an average of 15.58 points per game in the past PBA Philippine Cup. He also averaged 6.08 rebounds and 2.16 assists per game.
Manuel had his best scoring game when he had 24 markers to power the Aces to 105-97 victory over Phoenix Super LPG October last year. He also had 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal to earn Player of the Game honors.
Manuel was one of five double-digit scorers for the team during the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup. The others were Robbie Herndon (12.5 ppg), Jeron Teng (11.25 ppg), Mike DiGregorio (10.833 ppg), and Abu Tratter (10.58 ppg).
