Magnolia taps Tyler Bey as Commissioner’s Cup import

Magnolia has signed a defensive-minded player as its import for the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Former Colorado Buffaloes standout Tyler Bey is expected to arrive in the country on the second week of September, according to Hotshots coach Chito Victolero.

“Bagay siya sa amin, athletic at bata,” said Victolero of the 25-year-old American.

Bey was selected 36th overall in the 2020 NBA draft and played briefly for the Dallas Mavericks.

“He can also play either shooting guard or small forward and he has an inside-outside game,” added the one-time PBA champion mentor.

Magnolia’s coaching staff admitted that they were drawn to Bey’s defensive abilities.

“Naging Defensive Player of the Year siya sa Pac-12 (in the US NCAA) so tingin namin babagay siya talaga sa sistema namin,” stressed Victolero.

Magnolia also appears to be satisfied with their current ceiling, with a frontline that includes young bigs James Laput and Abu Tratter together with veterans Rafi Reavis and Ian Sangalang, reason why the team settled for Bey, who stands 6-foot-7.

Imports are limited to a maximum height of 6-foot-9 in the opening conference of the league’s 48th season.