Dave Ildefonso has been traded from Titan Ultra to Converge, paving the way for the No. 5 pick in the PBA Season 49 Draft to finally play in the league.

Under the terms of the deal, Ildefonso’s signing rights has been moved to the FiberXers for Kobe Monje, with the Giant Risers also receiving their Season 51 second round draft pick and Season 52 first round selection.

The PBA trade committee approved the deal on Friday, with Converge team governor Archen Cayabyab admitting that there were several revisions to the trade.

“Finally, we can now breathe a sigh of relief,” said Cayabyab in a statement. 

“It was a tough call. But looking at our young team, we know that we need Dave as his position is also our missing piece. We want to be competitive and give Boss Dennis Anthony Uy a championship and getting Dave is a great addition.”

Ildefonso was drafted by Titan Ultra’s predecessor NorthPort during the 49th Season but never signed with the team following a contract dispute. Ildefonso’s signing rights was part of the purchase of the NorthPort franchise by Titan Ultra.

Ildefonso is currently playing for the Abra Weavers in the MPBL and is expected to finish his commitment with the ballclub until the end of their campaign.