Magnolia lands Javi Gomez de Liano in Tenorio’s first big move

Just weeks after being appointed as head coach of the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, LA Tenorio is already making bold moves — the latest being the blockbuster Javi Gomez de Liano–Jerrick Ahanmisi trade.

In the deal approved by the PBA, Gomez de Liano will now don the Magnolia jersey after previous stints with Terrafirma, the Korean Basketball League, and the Strong Group Athletics in the Jones Cup. Meanwhile, the sweet-shooting Ahanmisi will suit up for the Dyip. The trade also includes Magnolia’s second-round pick, which now belongs to Terrafirma.

With the transaction complete, one question lingers: Who really won the trade?

On paper and in the eyes of many analysts and fans, Magnolia appears to have the edge. Gomez de Liano offers a more complete package: size, versatility, and a well-rounded skill set.

That said, Ahanmisi’s scoring potential should not be underestimated. He has the ability to heat up and take over a game when given the opportunity, a weapon that was not fully maximized under his former coach. With Terrafirma, he could rediscover that spark and become a major offensive threat.

Gomez de Liano brings exactly what Magnolia has been missing on the wings. At 6’3”, he can guard multiple positions while providing Tenorio with a dynamic offensive option. His overseas experience has hardened his game against elite competition and that’s a valuable edge as he transitions back to the PBA.

The move also signals Magnolia’s willingness to pivot. The departures of former team captain Rafi Reavis and the unexpected exit of Will Navarro to the Korean league left a noticeable gap in the rotation. Javi may not fully replace their interior presence, but his versatility allows the Hotshots to experiment with different lineups.

For Terrafirma, this follows their familiar pattern — flipping high-upside talents for draft picks and proven PBA-ready players. Ahanmisi should provide instant scoring, while the second-round pick is another shot at adding young talent in next year’s draft.

Still, the decision to part ways with Gomez de Liano before he even suited up will once again invite the usual criticism of Terrafirma’s “talent redistribution” to bigger teams.

The Bigger Picture

The timing is telling. Magnolia didn’t wait for the free agency or draft period to unfold. This was a calculated move, showing that Tenorio and management already have a clear blueprint for the team’s future.

Whether Gomez de Liano becomes a cornerstone or a key role player will depend on how quickly he adapts to Magnolia’s system — and how Tenorio integrates him alongside Paul Lee, Mark Barroca, and Ian Sangalang.

For now, one thing’s certain: the LA Tenorio era in Magnolia is off to a fast, aggressive start. If this trade is any indication, more bold moves may be just around the corner.