Rain or Shine is racing against time, working hard to complete the requirements of its new import, Ryan Pearson, that will make him eligible to see action in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.
Elasto Painters assistant coach Caloy Garcia yesterday admitted that they are now rushing Pearson’s documents so he could suit up when they face leader Bay Area on Friday.
Pearson, a 32-year-old journeyman, will be replacing Steve Taylor Jr. following the Elasto Painters’ slow start in the midseason conference.
Curiously, Taylor and Pearson used to be teammates in the French League.
“Coach Yeng (Guiao) even asked Steve about Ryan and he gave him very good feedback,” said Garcia, who is also the Elasto Painters’ head of basketball operations.
Should the Elasto Painters fail to complete Pearson’s documents, Garcia stressed that Taylor is willing to stay in the country and play until Sunday when they take on dangerous Converge.
“Steve was still attending our practices and he was willing to play until Sunday,” Garcia said.
“He told us that if ever Ryan’s papers won’t be processed on time, he’s willing to play for us.”
But Garcia is confident they have all the requirements processed before Friday’s game.
Pearson was scheduled to arrive at 10 p.m. on Wednesday and has to undergo medical test the following morning before securing professional license from the Games and Amusement Board.
By 12 p.m., the Elasto Painters have to formally notify the PBA Office regarding the switch and Pearson has to be measured.
“We’ll go to the PBA Office before 12 and we will know as well who the import of Bay Area will be because they have to select from the two imports they have,” Garcia added.
The Dragons will have to choose who between imports Andrew Nicholson and Myles Powell they will use when they face the Elasto Painters.
Garcia admitted that it was veteran Gabe Norwood who broached the idea of bringing in Pearson as they attended the same school — George Mason University.
“We were looking for an import for next conference since the import’s height limit is below 6-foot-6, then Gabe brought the idea of taking in Pearson,” Garcia said.
“Coach Yeng asked if he would be available the soonest possible and once we learned he’s available, we thought of bringing him over.”
