Tanduay Alab Pilipinas is going all-out to to right the ship after a rocky start to their ABL season.
The Philippine-based squad has made wholesale changes to its World Imports, replacing Ivan Johnson and Reggie Okosa after a 1-3 record in their first four games. Replacing the two are a pair of American imports with ties to the Philippines, Renaldo Balkman and Justin Brownlee.
Both players are set to make their debut on Wednesday, as Tanduay Alab Pilipinas takes on Westports Malaysia Dragons.
Renaldo Balkman brings with him an impressive resume playing around the world. A 2006 NBA Draftee by the New York Knicks with the 20th pick, Balkman played six seasons in the league, splitting time between the Knicks and the Denver Nuggets. He is also a member of the national team of Puerto Rico. Balkman has also had experiences playing in Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Mexico.
Balkman played one conference in the PBA, which was abruptly cut short due to an incident with a teammate. However the veteran is ready to make amends as he gets a second opportunity in the Philippines, this time representing the country in the ABL.
“Thankful for another opportunity to do what I love to do,” Balkman said on his Instagram account. “5 years to the day I did something I regret and and I learned a valuable lesson from it, always remember to keep your composure and to be the best role model you can be, now I finally have a chance for redemption.”
Joining Balkman is fellow American Justin Brownlee, one of the most beloved PBA imports in recent memory. Brownlee helped tow Barangay Ginebra to two championships in two straight seasons, cementing himself as a winner in Philippine shores. Brownlee brings impressive averages of 26 points, 11.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 2 blocks per contest in his two conference outings in the PBA.
Brownlee also played in the NBA D-League, as well as Mexico, France and Italy before his stint in the Philippines.
Tanduay Alab Pilipinas under Head Coach Jimmy Alapag has made moves that they believe will turn around the team’s fortunes. Will they get on the right track to begin 2018? Find out as Tanduay Alab Pilipinas takes on the Dragons in the resumption of ABL action.
Featured Photos by Christopher Pasatieri (Balkman) and David Calvert (Brownlee)
