Ahanmisi inclined to sign deal with Ginebra

Veteran Filipino-foreign guard Maverick Ahanmisi has agreed in principle to sign what could more likely be a three-year, maximum deal with Barangay Ginebra.

Maverick Ahanmisi PBA PHOTO

A reliable source close to the 6-foot-2 guard said the former University of Minnesota standout has started working out at the Gin Kings' practice facility at C5, along Pasig since he arrived in Manila on September 11.

“There's been no signed deal yet but in principle, both camps have agreed to a three-year, max deal. Maverick has been asked by coach Tim (Cone) to start working out in the gym,” the source told the Manila Times on Monday.

Ahanmisi has been one of the coveted veteran stars in the offseason since his contract expired last June.

His camp was reported to have had talks with TNT, which is also interested to acquire the services of the third overall pick of Rain or Shine in the 2015 PBA Draft.

The 32-year-olf Ahanmisi is coming off an explosive PBA season that saw him average career-high numbers of 13.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists in 36 games for the Converge FiberXers.

Negotiations between the two-time PBA All-Star Obstacle Challenge champion and Converge however, didn't materialize, prompting Ahanmisi to explore free agency options.

Once Ahanmisi signs at the dotted line, the sweet-shooting guard is seen to form a potent back court for Ginebra that now has reigning Most Valuable Player Scottie Thompson, vastly-improved Nard Pinto and veteran combo guard Stanley Pringle.

Ahanmisi could easily cover the absence of Jeremiah Gray, who suffered a major knee injury at the close of the PBA On Tour last July, as well as the uncertain status of veteran star LA Tenorio, who, at the moment is serving as one of Cone's assistants at Gilas.