PBA Commissioner paying steep price for executive decision

Multiple reports have come out that PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa may soon be out as top brass for Asia’ pro hoops. A lot of that had to do with his decision to approve the celebrated Kia Picanto-San Miguel Beer trade which critics and fans deemed lopsided.

As most know by now, the Beermen snagged Fil-German Christian Standhardinger in the 2017 PBA Draft. They sent Jay-R Reyes, Ronald Tubid, Rashawn McCarthy and a future pick to Picanto. Though better than the first offer (McCarthy, Keith Agovida and a future first-round pick), most felt that Narvasa should have asked for a starter to be included.

Names such as Arwind Santos, Chris Ross, Marcio Lassiter or Alex Cabagnot were mentioned though seeing that happen was a long shot.

Tubid and Reyes are in their prime and expected to hang it up at some point moving forward. On the other hand, McCarthy hardly made an impression as he struggled to break into the crowded rotation of head coach Leo Austria.

With all that water under the bridge, the attention has now shifted on the PBA Commissioner. While it was earlier reported that the PBA Board would support his decision, left out where keywords – fair and unbiased.

Apparently, the revisions were not enough to convince key people, fans and followers. Now, Narvasa may have to pay the price with reports that he may be on his way out. According to the Manila Bulletin, the PBA Board of Governors are set to meet this Thursday (Nov. 2, 2017) to discuss the fate of the PBA Commissioner.

In the same report, PBA media bureau chief Willie Marcial said that they have yet to receive any notice of the meeting.

The 12-man board has the power to remove the commissioner with a two-thirds vote. Narvasa would need eight votes but rumors have it that he may only get 5 at the most.

3 MVP group teams and 4 independent clubs no longer endorse Narvasa. He needs 8 votes to retain his post. (h/t @nelbeltran) pic.twitter.com/xVehMwnQ91

— PBAonTV5 (@PBAonTV5) October 30, 2017

The issue drew in more flames after Narvasa mentioned Talk ‘N Text assistant team manager Magnum Membrere as the one who helped Standhardinger file his application for the PBA Draft. The move drew the ire of the MVP group, calling it uncalled for and proving that he was biased.

TNT statement on trade and Comm Narvasa's comments mentioning asst team manager Magnum Membrere submitting Standhardinger draft application pic.twitter.com/09TM2KtdOy

— Jonas Terrado (@jonastsinelas) October 29, 2017

For his part, Narvasa told reporters that he did not mean any disrespect and that he respects TnT management’s decision to voice out their opinion.

Things are not looking too fruity for Narvasa who succeeded Atty. Chito Salud on May 14, 2015. The PBA Commissioner was unfortunately in the hot seat and any decision was crucial to satisfy all parties. Based on the multiple reports and feedback, it seems many are not happy.