2nd Smart Gilas prospect eyed

Source: Philippine Star
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is eyeing another prospect in NBA’s developmental league veteran Brian Butch for naturalization in case talks with NBA journeyman Dwane Jones bogs down.

Smart Gilas manager Frankie Lim yesterday said they’re now in the process of pursuing the 6-11 Jones, who suited up for several teams in both the NBA and the NBDL before ending up with the Austin Toros this year.

Lim disclosed that they had been having a difficult time getting in touch with Jones’ agent since the former St. John standout is still playing with the Toros in the NDL, which is expected to conclude at the end of the month.

“We’re having a hard time getting in touch with him (Jones) and we’re using all avenues to get him because he’s what coach Rajko (Toroman) wants,” said Lim. “Although we will not give up on him (Jones), we know Brian Butch could be a great fit to the team if in case we couldn’t get Jones,” he added.

Lim said Jones, an un-drafted rookie in 2005 who signed up with the Minnesota Timberwolves the same year before he was shipped to the Boston Celtics then moved to the Cleveland Cavaliers and finally to the Charlotte Bobcats two years ago, is expected to fill the Nationals’ need for inside presence.

Butch, a white 6-11 player who plays the No. 3 spot, doesn’t have the same power and athleticism of Jones but is more versatile since he does not only defend and rebound but also a reliable scorer who can hit it from behind the arc.