Energy Boosters turn to Varem to reverse fortune

MANILA, Philippines – Seeking to reverse its fortune upon the resumption of the Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Cup, struggling Barako Bull has tapped a new reinforcement in former Coca-Cola import Jeff Varem. Varem arrives Wednesday to join Barako Bull, enjoying enough time to adjust for the Energy Boosters’ next game on April 17 at the Araneta Coliseum. The At 2-5, the Energy Boosters occupy ninth spot in the 10-team field. The 25-year-old, 6’6 banger will replace the smaller Scooter McFadgon. McFadgon is actually among the best all-around imports playing in the ongoing tournament, but his lack of size was the main reason why the Barako Bull management and coaching staff decided to let him go and find a bigger replacement in Varem. The Nigerian-born forward played for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA Summer League last year. He also suited up for the Tulsa 66ers in the National Basketball Association Developmental League, averaging 17 points and three rebounds per game. Varem was also a member of the Nigerian national team for the FIBA World Championships and teamed up with former PBA import Julius Nwosu. Two years ago, Varem played for the Tigers in the Fiesta Conference and subbed Anthony Johnson, now the import of Sta. Lucia. But Varem was replaced as well by Rashad Bell in the closing stage of the tournament. A wide-bodied, inside banger, who worked so hard to get rebounds and defend against some of the best post players in the league, the former Washington State standout is expected to provide the inside presence that Barako Bull badly needs. “The only reason why Scooter was replaced is because he plays the same position as the other local players on the team. We need somebody who plays solid at the post," said a team member, who requested anonymity. Barako Bull isn’t the only team expected to make import change during the PBA’s Lenten break. Barangay Ginebra is also looking for a replacement for Rod Nealy, searching for a post player to help boost the squad’s decimated frontline. Ginebra coach Jong Uichico is said to be considering five names as Nealy's replacement. –GMANews.TV