NBA: Johnny Abarrientos almost became Muggsy Bogues’ successor at Charlotte Hornets

It is no secret that PBA legend Johnny ‘The Flying A’ Abarrientos was once scouted by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1990s and had a legitimate chance to play in the NBA.

Abarrientos, then playing for Alaska which he helped win a grand slam, was scouted by Hornets consultant Joe Bettancourt.

Abarrientos recalled he was invited for a meeting which took place at the Peninsula Manila along with head coach Tim Cone to discuss the offer.

Apparently, the Hornets were inviting Abarrientos to attend training with the team. They were also prepared to offer him a 10-day contract.

The 5-8 guard even mentioned that Charlotte might be looking at Asian players to become Muggsy Bogue’s successor.

For Alaska and the PBA’s end, there was already a go-signal too.

However, Abarrientos said changes in the management and ownership of the team, plus a trade that involved Bogues might have been the difference as to why the NBA stint did not push through.