NLEX, Converge tap former NBA players as Commissioner's Cup imports

NLEX and Converge will both be reinforced by former NBA players in the upcoming PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup.

The Road Warriors announced that they have tapped Ed Davis for the second import-laden conference while the FiberXers welcomed Cheick Diallo to the fold.

The 6-foot-9 Davis was a former 13th overall pick by the Toronto Raptors, a franchise he would play for from 2010 to 2013 before joining the Memphis Grizzlies. He also had stints with  the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, Brooklyn Nets, and the Utah Jazz.

He capped off his NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers then brought his act overseas, strutting his stuff in Puerto Rico before moving on to the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in China. Earlier this year, he suited up for Cangrejeros de Santurce in Puerto Rico.

Davis is set to bolster the Road Warriors and provide the needed help for locals like Robert Bolick, Baser Amer, and Javee Mocon.

“We’re thrilled to have Ed on board,” said NLEX head coach Jong Uichico in a statement.

“He brings a wealth of experience and leadership that we believe will help us. We’re optimistic that he’ll be able to matchup against the league’s top big men and make a huge difference in our campaign this conference."

Meanwhile, Diallo is also tipped to bring in a wealth of experience and knowledge, having played for multiple NBA teams like the New Orleans Pelicans, Phoenix Suns, and the Detroit Pistons.

Standing 6-foot-8, Diallo will reinforce a youthful Converge side that features the likes of Justin Arana, King Caralipio, Bryan Santos, Alec Stockton, and Deschon Winston as the FiberXers look to build on their impressive quarterfinals finish in the Governors' Cup.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News