The anticipated return of towering center Greg Slaughter to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has taken a bizarre and frustrating turn, with the 7-foot giant vanishing without explanation, leaving his prospective team in a state of confusion and roster uncertainty.
Team Governor Reveals Communication Breakdown
In an exclusive interview with Spin.ph, Titan Ultra Giant Risers team governor Emil Tiu disclosed that despite initial progress, Slaughter has completely ceased communication. "Our people have been calling him, but he does not answer us. He was vague with his responses. Our tender offer is ready, the PBA is waiting. But I do not know what happened," Tiu stated with evident frustration.
Contract Terms Were Reportedly Agreed
According to Tiu, financial terms were not a sticking point. Through Slaughter's advisers, both parties had agreed to a maximum salary of P420,000 per month. Tiu emphasized the team was even prepared to offer more than their initial proposal, but first wanted to clarify the condition of the former University of the Visayas (UV) Green Lancers star, which they believed was settled.
Dispelling Rumors of a 'Silent Ban'
Addressing swirling rumors that Slaughter might be subject to a "silent ban" from the PBA, Tiu clarified this is not the case. "We already talked to the PBA regarding his status, the PBA said there is no silent ban, so silently we've been working to get him to sign with us. But up to now, more than a month after, we have been ghosted," he explained.
Team Offered Flexible Contract Options
In an effort to secure Slaughter, the Titan Ultra Giant Risers showed significant flexibility. "Like I told them, we are willing to give a short-term contract or include a renegotiation clause, so he can be secured with us. We gave him those leeways, but suddenly he just disappeared like a bubble," Tiu recounted.
Roster Moves Made in Anticipation
The team's need for a dominant big man is acute, leading to a consequential roster decision. Tiu revealed they released veteran forward Calvin Abueva because they were confident they had secured Slaughter. This move has now backfired, leaving a significant gap in their lineup.
"We were really surprised because everything seemed arranged, then it suddenly sank without us knowing why," Tiu said, expressing the team's bewilderment at the sudden radio silence from the player they were counting on.
A Final Decision Looms
With patience wearing thin, Tiu indicated he will give Slaughter a few more days to respond before the team is forced to make a final decision on how to proceed. This saga leaves a major question mark over the PBA offseason and the future of one of its most prominent big men.
