Burger King re-signs swingman David, gives 3 others new contracts

Perennial title contender Burger King is not about to let go of another key player in its rotation. The Whopper re-signed veteran swingman Gary David to a three-year maximum deal worth P12.6-million. Burger King team manager and newly-installed Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) chairman Lito Alvarez confirmed this development to GMANews.TV in an interview Thursday. Rumored to be placed on the trading block following a misunderstanding on coach Yeng Guiao’s new philosophy, Alvarez made sure the 6-foot-2 former Lyceum Pirate won’t be going anywhere. “It was coach Yeng who asked me to keep David because he has good plans for him," said Alvarez. “He knows Gary will play an important role in our campaign this season." Burger King also signed three other players – guard Ronjay Buenafe, first-round rookie pick Ronnie Matias and Orlando Daroya. Buenafe, who was taken in by the Whopper from the Coca-Cola Tigers in the off-season as part of a four-player trade involving Marvin Cruz, rookie Chris Ross and a future pick, also got a three-year contract from BK. Matias, a hardworking forward, was also given a three-year deal while Daroya, who was acquired by the Whopper from the Ginebra Gin Kings in exchange for Cholo Villanueva, was given a two-year term. The team is also set to sign Japeth Aguilar to a three-year, maximum deal for a rookie. “It’s a no brainer, we will sign him up," said Alvarez. “We will contact him anytime. He’s just on the vacation after representing Team Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Championship." – GMANews.TV