MANILA, Philippines — Alaska forward Joe Devance finally got what he wanted Thursday as the management obliged to his request and was traded to Air21 for center JR Reyes.

Alaska team representative Joaqui Trillo said they are giving Devance a maximum salary but the veteran Fil-Am wanted out to seek “greener pasture.”

“We decided to let go of Joe. Well, he wanted out, despite us giving him the maximum salary,” said Trillo. “He wanted to seek greener pasture. But we wish him the best. We’re excited to get JR. he’ll be a big help to our team.”

The deal, however, will have to be approved by Commissioner Angelico “Chito” Salud.

Interestingly, both Devance and Reyes started their pro careers with Rain or Shine (formerly Welcoat Paints).

This is the second time that Devance has been traded since he was selected No. 1 overall by Welcoat in 2007. The Welcoat franchise, however, dealt the 6-foot-7 Devance to Alaska in 2008 on Draft Day for then rookie Sol Mercado.

Devance was a key contributor to the Aces’ title campaign in the 2010 Fiesta Cup, and in the past two conferences – Philippine and Commissioner’s Cup – he led the statistical department after the elimination round.

He averaged almost 15 points and 10 rebounds per game in his career. Devance will join the frontline of Danny Seigle and Dorian Peña with the Express. —Waylon Galvez