Magnolia forward William Navarro goes for a layup during a game against Ginebra in the PBA Philippine Cup.–PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Magnolia’s newest star William Navarro didn’t have a red carpet rolled out for his first game with the Hotshots in the PBA Philippine Cup.
Instead, it was more of a baptism of fire as his debut came against Barangay Ginebra in a “Manila Clasico” rivalry game Sunday night with the Hotshots falling short, 81-85, at Araneta Coliseum.
READ: PBA: Ginebra rallies to beat Magnolia in key clash
William Navarro talks about his first game for Magnolia. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/85OGdjPzmg
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) June 1, 2025
“I’m still adjusting. This is my first game in a new team and I know this is my adjustment period,” said Navarro, who just joined Magnolia a few days ago after being shipped by NorthPort in exchange for Calvin Abueva and Jerrick Balanza.
“We’re positive. This is a test so it’s never going to be easy if we want to achieve something great, so it’s a test for us.”
Still getting into the scheme of things with his new team, Navarro didn’t play much for the Hotshots as he logged just 16 minutes to finish with five points and four rebounds.
“For me, it was just another game. The only difference is, I’m in a new team with new players and coaches. Of course, my role is different too. I have to adjust with the coaches’ decisions,” said the former Ateneo Blue Eagle.
READ: PBA: With Navarro acquisition, Magnolia future-proofs roster
Even coach Chito Victolero acknowledged that Navarro, who is averaging 20.57 points and 10.57 rebounds this conference prior to the trade, is still in the process of figuring out the Hotshots’ system.
“We expect him to be adjusting but hopefully, when the playoff starts our chemistry with Will will improve,” said Victolero.
“We only had three practices with him for now but after a few days, maybe things will run better,” he added.
Magnolia faces NLEX on Friday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The two squads currently share the top spot with similar 7-3 slates.
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