No request for import change by San Miguel, says PBA Commissioner’s office

Orlando Johnson has just played 2 games for San Miguel when news of his impending departure broke out.

The 32-year Johnson had a forgettable debut but bounced back strong in the next game as the former NBA player led the Beermen past defending champion Brgy. Ginebra, 110-102. He scattered 31 points, hauled down 10 boards and issued 8 assists as the Leo Austria-mentored squad claimed their 4th victory and 7 starts.

His impressive stand, however, almost proved to his last in the league for the meantime as a replacement import is reportedly arriving to take his place.

Shabazz Mohammed, who was supposed to play for the Meralco Bolts this conference but backed out the last minute due to personal issues, is said to be the new import of San Miguel as confirmed by veteran sports journalist Quinito Henson on his Twitter account.

The PBA Commissioner’s office, however, stressed that there was no request for an import change by the Beermen as of the 12nn deadline on Tuesday.

“There’s no request yet for an import change,” said the league office during an interview with PBA Rush.

This means that Johnson will still be the team’s reinforcement for the game against Phoenix Super LPG on Wednesday, February 23.

The 29-year old Muhammad, who averaged double-digits in scoring during the two seasons he spent with the Minnesota Timberwolves, is reportedly arriving on Tuesday and will immediately join the Beermen in practice.