IT took three years for versatile forward William Navarro to realize his dream of playing overseas. Now, he can heave a big sigh of relief knowing it’s finally happening.
The 6-foot-6 Navarro opted to leave Magnolia and the PBA after he was signed yesterday by Busan KCC Egis in the Korean Basketball League.
His contract expired last month.
“We ask for lots of support and encouragement for William Navarro, who is making a new start at KCC Egis,” the team said on its social media account yesterday.
Navarro, 28, was supposed to see action with the Seoul Samsung Thunders three years ago as their Asian import but the plan did not push through due to his contractual obligations with Gilas Pilipinas.
Instead, Navarro suited up for NorthPort, which tabbed him No. 2 overall in the special Gilas Draft in Asia’s pioneering pro league and promptly emerged as one of the Batang Pier’s rising stars.
The former San Beda University and Ateneo standout was shipped to the Hotshots in exchange for Calvin Abueva in the middle of the last Philippine Cup, where he normed 15.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists.
The move allowed Navarro to join former NorthPort teammate Arvin Tolentino, who also linked up with the Seoul SK Knights last June.
Navarro’s transfer adds to the slew of Filipino cagers in the KBL that also includes Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, SJ Belangel, Ethan Alvano, JD Cagulangan, Migs Oczon and Rhenz Abando.
The Egis seek to rebound following an 18-36 campaign in the last KBL season.
The Hotshots will now have to make do with the likes of young gun Zavier Lucero, veterans Paul Lee, Mark Barroca, and Ian Sangalang, and with new coach LA Tenorio in the 50th season set to unfold with the all-Filipino meet in October.
