Jonathon Simmons remains committed with NLEX despite CBA lucrative offer

Jonathon Simmons said that he will remain committed to playing with NLEX Road Warriors.

However, the former NBA player could not assure how long he will stay with the team, as there are reports that he will return to Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) to sign a lucrative deal.

“I leave all those stuff to management. I just want to play basketball, but I’m glad it all worked out so I can play and lead this team to the win,” he said.

Simmons came through on his PBA Governor's Cup debut, as he tallied 32 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in NLEX's 124-104 victory over Blackwater on Wednesday.

For now, Simmons is here to stay with NLEX.

“Yes, I’ll be here,” Simmons said. “We’ll see. We’ll see what happens."

Despite the contract situation, Road Warriors head coach Frankie Lim still appreciated Simmons for his honesty.

"One thing I like about Simmons is honest siya sa akin, diretso siya sa akin (he is honest with me, he is straight with me). I really appreciate that,” Lim said. “Noong sinabi niya sa akin na (when he told me that) he has to go to China to play; sabi ko (I said), finish first your contract here. Maybe you can give us four wins before you leave.”

“I can’t stop him. Malaking pera ang involved eh (A lot of money is involved). Just cannot stop him,” he added. “Just get another one. ‘Yun lang ang solusyon doon (That's the only solution).”