Tim Cone confirms Norbert Torres signing to ease Japeth Aguilar’s workload at Barangay Ginebra

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel bolstered their frontcourt ahead of PBA Season 50 by signing veteran center Norbert Torres in free agency, providing much-needed depth behind Japeth Aguilar.

Torres, who spent the last two seasons with the Meralco Bolts, is expected to ease the workload of the 38-year-old Aguilar, who logged heavy minutes last season after Isaac Go’s absence and Christian Standhardinger’s trade.

Head coach Tim Cone welcomed the addition, noting the importance of having reliable frontcourt support.

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Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings head coach Tim Cone said the addition of free-agent center Norbert Torres is meant to boost the team’s frontline depth heading into PBA Season 50.

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“Japeth had to play every minute and he would wear down, becoming less efficient in the later stages. We needed someone who could step in, give him some rest, and allow him to stay fresh,” Cone said during the PBA Rookie Draft.

A former No. 8 overall pick in the 2015 PBA Draft by the Star Hotshots, Torres brings a wealth of experience from stints with Phoenix, TNT, Rain or Shine, and Meralco—where he won his first PBA title in the 2024 Philippine Cup. Known for his perimeter shooting and reliable presence, he is seen as a valuable addition to Ginebra’s rotation.

Interestingly, Cone revealed that Ginebra almost drafted Torres in 2015 before opting for Scottie Thompson with the No. 5 pick.

“Scottie was just too good to pass up, but we were really interested in getting a big man at that time. Now we finally have Norbert, and I’ve always liked his perimeter game. We’ll see how he fits into the Triangle,” Cone added.

The 2017 PBA All-Star is expected to provide crucial support for Aguilar as Ginebra prepares for another grueling campaign.