BARANGAY Ginebra San Miguel could be keeping its next import under wraps, with fans left guessing over the identity of the player who may reinforce the Gin Kings when the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup resumes next month.
The Ginebra Boy’s Ball-Baller’s Facebook page, which is managed by longtime Gin Kings utility man Marious Atienza, recently posted a photo of an American player with the caption, “The Who?🤔”
The post immediately triggered speculation among Ginebra supporters, with some fans identifying the player as former NBA forward Kaiser Gates, while others suggested Jordan Murphy.
The mystery comes as the Gin Kings continue to search for an import following the unavailability of Justin Brownlee, who has been sidelined amid uncertainty surrounding his return to the team.
Gates, who stands 6-foot-8, played college basketball at Xavier University before going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft. He later signed a two-way deal with the Chicago Bulls and played for the Windy City Bulls in the NBA G League.
He also had stints with the Maine Red Claws, Long Island Nets and Paris Basketball before returning to the NBA with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2023.
Murphy, meanwhile, played college basketball for Minnesota and went undrafted in 2017. The 6-foot-6 forward has built his professional career overseas and in the NBA G League.
Fastbreak has reached out to Gin Kings head coach Tim Cone for clarification but had yet to receive a response as of posting time. (Adrian Co)
