Chris Banchero set to become an unrestricted free agent

Phoenix Super LPG guard Chris Banchero is about to become an unrestricted free agent on Tuesday, February 1.

Fuel Masters team manager Paolo Bugia admitted that the 33-year old Fil-Italian playmaker has already informed him of his decision to turn UFA once his contract expires on the 31st of January.

“Yes, he will (become a UFA). He wants to see the best offer come Feb. 1,” said Bugia during an interview with SPIN.ph.

“We’re still convincing him to sign. We are in constant communication naman with him every day. So let’s see,” added the former Red Bull, Purefoods and Alaska big man.

Banchero, who was acquired by the Dennis Uy-owned franchise from Magnolia in exchange for Calvin Abueva in a deal which also involved draft picks, has a pending contract offer with negotiations still ongoing.

The 5th overall pick pick of the 2014 PBA rookie draft currently leads Phoenix in scoring with 18 points per game, on 55 percent shooting from the field, to go with 3.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 2.4 steals. The Fuel Masters hold a 3-2 record in the 2021 Governors’ Cup which is scheduled to restart on February 11.

If ever Banchero decides to pack his bags and leave the Fuel Masters, he will be the 4th member of his draft class to switch teams after Rodney Brondial, John Pinto and Matt Ganuelas-Rosser.