Chris Banchero signs with Meralco Bolts

Chris Banchero has a new team come the resumption of the 2021 PBA Governors Cup.

The Filipino-Italian guard has signed a fresh deal with the Meralco Bolts, the team confirmed on Wednesday, with only days left before the import-flavored conference returns on February 11.

The development came after Banchero hit unrestricted free agency.

"We're happy to have Chris join us," said Meralco head coach Norman Black in a statement. "His experience and talent are evident, now the next step is to have him adjusted as quickly as possible. We look forward to having Chris join our next practice."

One more reason to get excited about the #PBA returning: Chris Banchero will be suiting up for the #MeralcoBolts. ? #ChargeForward pic.twitter.com/4tlKBDjvYa

— Meralco Bolts (@MeralcoBolts) February 2, 2022

Banchero previously played for Phoenix Super LPG after getting traded by the Magnolia Hotshots where he played from 2019 to 2020. Banchero also saw action with the Alaska Aces, where he suited up since being drafted fifth overall in 2014 until late 2019.

In five games that Fuel Masters have played so far in the Governors' Cup, Banchero averaged 18 points alongside 5.4 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 2.4 steals to become the team's top scorer.

The 33-year-old guard will now join the likes of Chris Newsome, Anjo Caram, and Aaron Black in the Meralco backcourt as they eye to eclipse their bridesmaid finish in the previous edition of the season-ending conference in 2019.

The Bolts are currently at second spot in the team standings with a clean 2-0 slate.

—Bea Micaller/MGP, GMA News