FILE–Dave Ildefonso during a KBL game with Suwon KT Sonicboom. Photo from Suwon KT Sonicboom
MANILA, Philippines—Suwon KT Sonicboom coach Song Young-Jin kept it short and simple on why the squad didn’t re-sign Filipino import Dave Ildefonso for the 2024-25 season of the Korean Basketball League.
The visiting Sonicboom defeated PBA team San Miguel, 87-81, to open their 2024 East Asia Super League (EAS)L on a winning note on Wednesday.
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During the post-game scrum, Song was inevitably asked about his former import in Ildefonso, who chose to declare for the PBA Draft after his stint in Korea.
READ: Dave Ildefonso missing home, weighing options aside from KBL
“No, we didn’t talk to him,” said the coach when asked if the squad kept in touch with the Ateneo product upon their arrival in the Philippines.
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However, Song offered praises for Ildefonso when he was asked about his short stint with Suwon KT that ended last year.
“Dave is a really handsome guy,” said Song in jest. “Obviously, we tried to help him a lot and adjust to the team. We gave him a lot of opportunities and we gave him two seasons but he couldn’t capitalize.”
Ildefonso spent two seasons with the Sonicboom.
READ: PBA: Dave Ildefonso yet to sign contract with NorthPort
Ildefonso’s contract with Suwon ended earlier this year following their loss to the KBL Finals at the hands of KCC Egis after five games.
“He’s a good player but he’s just not a good fit for us and that’s why he’s not here with us now,” said Song.
Ildefonso was eventually drafted by Northport with the fifth overall pick in the 2024 PBA Draft but contract negotiations are yet to reach a conclusion.
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As of writing, there’s still no news on Ildefonso following the Batang Pier’s elimination from the currently ongoing PBAg Governors’ Cup.