FAR Eastern University stalwart Richard Escoto has yet to play in the MPBL Datu Cup, but his rights had already been upheld by two teams.
A week after he was released to the free agency by the Navotas Clutch, the Bataan Risers decided to pick up Escoto, who is still fulfilling his commitments playing for the Tamaraws in the UAAP.
Escoto’s inclusion to the 20-man roster was approved by the MPBL Commissioner’s Office.
The 6-foot-4 Escoto is expected to take over the position of big man Jeepy Faundo, who will be applying for the coming PBA Rookie Draft.
This developed as the Pampanga Lanterns, one of the busiest teams in the 10-day trade deadline and free agency shopping, made a move by acquiring two frontliners in time for their next game.
The Lanterns, owned by Congressman Dong Gonzales, picked up Arden Guiyab and Mark Anthony Guillen from the free agency, giving the squad the big men it needs.
Guiyab, a 6-foot-5 bruising center, was released by the Zamboanga Valientes while Guillen, a 6-foot-3 backup forward who previously played for Imus, got waived by the Bandera.
With Marlon Gomez traded to Navotas and Allen Enriquez sidelined by an injury, Guiyab and Guillen will be a welcome addition to the Lanterns camp.
Action in the MPBL Datu Cup resumes Wednesday at the Imus Sports Complex as Valenzuela and Pampanga clash at 7 p.m. while Imus battles Caloocan in the main game at 9 p.m.
After winning four in a row, the Bandera had lost back-to-back games. — Rey Joble
