TNT, Coke fight for import Bell’s services

MANILA, Philippines – Talk ‘N Text and Coca-Cola are in a tug-of-war for the services of Boston College Eagles standout Rashad Bell. Bell, who played briefly for the Tigers in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), is reportedly being wooed by the Tropang Texters to become the team’s import in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Reinforced Conference that starts February 28. The 6-foot-6 standout is having an outstanding season playing in the European League in Hungary where he is the tournament’s leading scorer with nearly 25 points per game. He is also second in rebounds with an 8.3 average. Talk ‘N Text, which is currently battling Alaska in the ongoing KFC PBA Philippine Cup best-of-seven championship series, is very much impressed on Bell. But Coca-Cola board governor JB Baylon said his team has the rights on the services of Bell, who won’t be available until March because of his commitment in the Hungary. This is the reason why the Tigers opted to tap former Red Bull import James Penny, who led the Barakos to the 2005-2006 Fiesta Conference crown against the Marquin Chandler-led Purefoods squad. Baylon said he is constantly communicating with Bell. “He sent me an e-mail and he denied that he has signed with any of the teams in the PBA," said Baylon. “He promised to give me the first crack." “I am in touch with him and he has told me all the rumors are false. I am sure he will ask permission first before he signs up with any team," he added. Bell is expected to come to the Philippines after his European League stint to become the Tigers’ standby import. From there, the coaching staff will decide whether to keep Penny or replace him with their previous import. – GMANews.TV