Top pick Casio disappointed over contract: report

by abs-cbnNEWS.com



MANILA, Philippines – Former Smart Gilas standout JV Casio is apprehensive about the contract offered to him by the Powerade Tigers, the team that made him the number 1 pick in the 2011 PBA Rookie Draft.

According to PBA.ph, Powerade is only offering Casio a 2-year deal.

"We've heard Powerade will only give a new contract after the 3rd year, and it will be based on the performances of the player and the team," Casio's agent, Charlie Dy, told PBA.ph.

Meanwhile, 2nd overall pick Paul Lee has already been signed by Rain or Shine. Lee's contract with the team is for the 3-years maximum, and he will receive a monthly salary of P150,000 in his first year in the league.

"Parang hindi fair, kumpara sa ibang fellow first round picks ni JV na nabigyan ng tig-ti-three-year contracts," Dy said.
The agent said that he and Casio will meet with the team management Wednesday, but are already considering other options.

Dy revealed that if Casio is indeed offered only a 2-year deal, the star point guard may opt not to sign with Powerade.

A report last Sunday by the Manila Bulletin said that Casio has already signed the tender offer, a document wherein the player agrees to play for the team that drafted him. The report also quotes team manager Gerard Francisco, who is hopeful that Casio will sign his contract this week.

"We just have to listen to what they have to say, about their plans for JV and with regards to the team," Dy said.

PBA board representative and team manager JB Baylon was not available for comment.

Baylon earlier said, however, that he does not believe in guaranteed 3-year deals.

"How can one give out a guaranteed contract when one never knows how he and the team will turn out together? I think a 2-year contract is fair enough for potential," Baylon said.

Powerade's other rookie, Marcio Lassiter, was also offered a similar deal. Lassiter and Casio were teammates in the Smart Gilas Pilipinas National team.