Mike Nieto to finalize contract with Rain or Shine after SBP release

Mike Nieto can soon don the Rain or Shine uniform as the former Ateneo standout is set to finalize his contract with the Elasto Painters after securing his release from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

Rain or Shine head coach Chris Gavina said that Nieto is tipped to sign a deal with the team on Friday and is expected to join the club in preparation for the 2021 PBA Governors' Cup restart on February 11.

"Mike will be finalizing his contract I believe by tomorrow and will hopefully be joining the team by this weekend," Gavina told GMA News Online on Thursday.

Gavina said Nieto will bring a huge impact to the team, especially after suiting up for the Gilas Pilipinas during the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers where he averaged 4.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in three games.

In Rain or Shine camp, the 24-year-old Nieto will join a stacked backcourt that features stars like James Yap, Rey Nambatac, Anton Asistio, Andrei Caracut, and Trevis Jackson.

"Mike's impact on the team will be the 'motor' he plays with. His competitive, outwork, and out-think, and out-hustle mentality will bring a player who can change the game in a variety of ways," Gavina said.

"He's the type of player who is willing to do whatever that is needed of him and puts the success of the team ahead of everything. I believe his Gilas experience will allow me to utilize him in several different positions as he learns our system."

Nieto, along with  Isaac Go, Rey Suerte, Allyn Bulanadi, and brother Matt Nieto, was recently released by the national team after their contracts expired on January 31.

—MGP, GMA News