Magnolia made another roster addition before the start of the PBA’s 50th season by signing former Phoenix forward Raffy Verano on Thursday.
The Hotshots announced the move on social media with a photo showing Verano being joined by team manager Alvin Patrimonio while inking on the dotted line. He had been joining Magnolia’s practices since the start of the week and even scored seven points in the 91-84 tune-up victory over Blackwater two days prior at Gameville Ball Park in Mandaluyong City.
‘It’s a blessing, for sure,’ Verano told Inquirer after that tune-up game. ‘Everyone’s dream here in the Philippines is to be on a winning team. So I’m grateful and fortunate to land here.’
Verano joins Magnolia after he was released by Phoenix, which selected the Ateneo product in the second round of the Season 48 Draft two years ago.
Minutes have been inconsistent during the scrappy 6-foot-4 forward’s two seasons with the Fuel Masters.
His addition comes amid a busy offseason for Magnolia, which will now be handled by rookie coach LA Tenorio.
Also new to the squad are Javi Gomez de Liano and Paolo Taha while also signing rookie Gab Gomez.