Belasco to join Welcoat

By Rey Joble
People's Journal
September 16, 2007



After several days of haggling, Nic Belasco has decided to choose what’s better for him — to sign a two-year maximum deal with Welcoat.

In an e-mail sent to Welcoat board representative Atty. Mamerto Mondragon, Belasco said that he might accept the offer and has given a reasonable proposal to the Dragons.

“Atty. Mondragon is the one communicating with Belasco, who is still in the United States. He has come up with a reasonable proposal and we might sign him up when he arrives early next week,” Welcoat co-owner Raymond Yu told People’s Tonight.

Earlier, Belasco had demanded for additional perks on top of the maximum salary, a move that didn’t sit well with Welcoat management.

In fact, the Dragons had reportedly looked for teams where they can trade Belasco and the name of Barangay Ginebra was mentioned as the squad that expressed interest in getting the services of the 10-year, veteran forward.

Among the players Welcoat reportedly tried to get were Mike Holper, a 6-7, agile big man, and rookie guard Macky Escalona.

This time, however, Belasco is signing a different tune.

“I’m happy with this new development,” said Yu. “I really believe that we need a player of his caliber and I’m excited to see him sign up with us.”

Belasco is fresh from getting another championship ring with the Alaska Aces, who won the Fiesta Conference crown against the Talk N Text Phone Pals.

He was traded to the Dragons during draft day for Jun-Jun Cabatu, but has yet to ink a contract until now.

A seven-time champion, – six with San Miguel and one with Alaska – Belasco will play a valuable role for the Dragons, whose line up have definitely improved with the acquisition of top overall draft pick Joe Devance as well as fellow rookie Ryan Araña.

“Gusto ni coach yung mga big men who can run the breaks,” said Yu. “We have a young team. Nic will play an important role for us.”