Ilunga Mbenga to join Barako Bull Energy

Former NBA big man, Ilunga Mbenga (214 cm) is going to be the import of Barako Bull Energy from the Philippines’ PBA for the upcoming Commissioner’s Cup. Mbenga, also known as DJ Mbenga, is a holder of both a Belgian and a Congolese passport. He was initially sought after by the Alaska Aces of the same league, due to his familiarity with the triangle offense which Mbenga became familiar with during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers under Phil Jackson. It is the same system employed by Alaska. Unfortunately, both parties could not come to terms.

Mbenga logged eight games this 2012-13 season for the Qingdao Double Star Eagles from China’s CBA. During that stint he averaged 11.9 ppg and 8.6 rpg.