Guiao feels “awesome” KJ McDaniels right for NLEX

Ariana Kasım 26, 2021

imports KJ McDaniels now to play for NLEX in the PBA.

FILE – Import KJ McDaniels now to play for NLEX in the PBA. PHOTO OF THE REQUEST

MANILA, Philippines – He had to wait two years, but NLEX coach Yeng Guiao has finally found his man.

Guiao was already impressed with KJ McDaniels as early as in the 2019 Governors’ Cup, so he immediately rushed when he had the opportunity to sign the 6-foot-6 forward for the upcoming 2021 beefed-up conference.

“He was impressive the last time he was here, but the most impressive thing about KJ is his attitude. We have heard a lot of good things about him. We certainly believe he is the right person for us to help us reach the playoffs again, ”Guiao said on the Road Warriors official website.

McDaniels, a three-year NBA veteran, first dressed for TNT in the East Asian Super League tournament in Macau, then became the team’s foreign player for the 2019 Governors’ Cup, where he scored. an average of 37.09 points, 13.9 rebounds and 3.5 blocks, along the way to a semi-final.

Tropang Giga, who still had McDaniel’s playing rights in the PBA, decided to release the former Philadelphia 76er when they opted to sign 6-foot-6 guard McKenzie Moore instead.

This transaction ultimately allowed Guiao and the Road Warriors to sign McDaniels, replacing the original Manny Harris.

“We are looking for a player who can play as both a small forward and a big forward,” said Guiao. “Manny Harris is fine for us, but we need an extra big shot apart from the fact that we will need more production from the import with Kiefer Ravena out for the rest of the season.”

Harris led the Road Warriors to seed the 2019 Governors’ Cup, but Guiao’s guard rotation – which has Kevin Alas, Jericho Cruz, Mike Ayonayon and Kenneth Ighalo – required an offensive player.

Another factor for Guiao da McDaniel’s signing is the 28-year-old’s familiarity with the PBA.

“Return imports will always have the advantage. It’s hard to find a replacement import due to our situation now, so we need to make sure we hire the right person. At least we have an idea of how he plays, so surely, returning imports have the edge in the next tournament, “Guiao said.