Alas says trade talks part of Phoenix’s problem

Reports that some Phoenix Pulse players are on the trading block has contributed to the Fuel Masters’ listless games of late.

No less than Phoenix coach Louie Alas admitted this, saying said talks have added to his players losing some of their focus despite his words to them to act as true professionals and play their usual game.

“Partly,” was how Alas put it, referring to how much said reports affected his team that has now lost three straight following an 81-97 defeat to Magnolia Ang Pambansang Manok last Wednesday.

That latest defeat gave the Fuel Masters a 2-7 winloss record and on the brink of missing out on at least a playoff spot for the eightteam PBA Governors Cup quarterfinals.

“Pero naipaliwanag na naman namin sa kanila na kung we’re doing great, walang mababalitang ganoon,” Alas went on.

“Tinanong ko sila headon: ‘Kung nangyayari mga gan’yang balita, just be professionals. Do not whine or feel bad about it. Pero after that, work hard para mawala mga balitang iyan.’ Sabi ko rin, look at TNT.

Nasa top iyan, pero nagte-trade pa rin. What more tayo, na struggling.’’

Alas did admit that other teams have sent feelers for trades since even before the season-ending conference began. A persistent one even made a formal offer two weeks ago.

Although Alas declined from naming said team, a source said it was Alaska, which was dangling Vic

Manuel and Chris Banchero in return for Matthew Wright and Jason Perkins.

Said trade offer was turned down flat.

“Basta sinabi na ng management - at ako rin before - na not for sale iyung dalawa, along with Calvin (Abueva),” explained Alas. “Sila iyung big three namin and we will not entertain any offer for them.” —