Alapag’s first move as team manager is bringing back Richard Howell

MANILA, Philippines – Just a few days after being announced as the new team manager of the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters, Jimmy Alapag has completed one of the biggest objectives that comes with the job: securing an import for the Commissioner’s Cup conference.

For the second straight season, Richard Howell will bolster the frontline of the Tropang Texters.

The transaction was confirmed to Rappler on Tuesday, January 13, by Howell’s representation, basketball agent Sheryl Reyes.

In the 2014 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, Howell averaged 19.5 PPG, 18.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, and 1.5 SPG for Talk ‘N Text, who swept the elimination round and went unbeaten until the finals, where they were defeated by eventual champion San Mig Coffee Super Mixers in four games, 3-1.

Howell’s performance earned him the 2014 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Best Import award.

Acquiring the 24-year-old big man out of Marietta, Georgia would fill Talk ‘N Text’s biggest void during the Philippine Cup, which was at the center position. In their 4-0 semifinal series loss at the hands of the San Miguel Beermen, Talk ‘N Text did not have an answer for June Mar Fajardo.

Howell, who stands at 6-foot-7 and weighs 250 pounds, will join a Talk ‘N Text team loaded with veterans in Jayson Castro, Jay Washington, and Kelly Williams, plus talented rookies Matt Ganuelas-Rosser and Kevin Alas.

Howell will also play under a new head coach in Jong Uichico after being coached by Norman Black last season. And unlike last year, Howell will no longer have Alapag as a teammate.

“Richard was amazed that Jimmy is now the team manager,” said Reyes. “He (Alapag) dealt with the discussions very smooth and the transaction was fast. He learns fast.”

The Tropang Texters will open their Commissioner’s Cup campaign on Wednesday, January 28, when they take on the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. – Rappler.com