BAXI Manresa signs Eric Vila to boost the paint in ACB

BAXI Manresa has confirmed the signing of Eric Vila, the Catalan power forward returning after a season with Dreamland Gran Canaria. The official announcement will come in the next few hours and his arrival is already expected to strengthen the team's paint.

What does Eric Vila's arrival mean?

Vila, 25, was part of the interior rotation for the island team, averaging 8.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in the 2023‑24 campaign. His ability to play with the ball in the low post and his mobility in pick‑and‑roll fit the style coached by Joan Peñarroya. As a Spanish player, his signing also helps the club meet domestic player quotas without sacrificing quality.

Why is it important for BAXI Manresa?

Manresa is looking to balance its roster before the upcoming Liga Endesa season. Vila adds an experienced ACB piece that can take on a significant rotation role, offering paint alternatives and improving zone defense. Recent games showed vulnerability in offensive rebounds; Vila, with an average of 1.2 blocks, could address that weakness.

How does the short‑term outlook look?

Coach Peñarroya has already said Vila will be quickly integrated into the offensive scheme, especially in pick‑and‑roll actions with the local point guard. The expectation is that the Catalan will cement his presence in the league and help BAXI Manresa climb the standings. The season starts in October and the club hopes chemistry will develop before the first games.

What are the analysts saying?

Specialist media consider Vila's signing one of the smartest moves in the transfer market. He combines size (2.08 m) and mobility, traits many ACB teams seek to counter the trend toward faster lineups. His experience with a roster like Gran Canaria also gives him valuable tactical insight for Manresa's project.

With Vila added to the squad, BAXI Manresa is positioned to compete with greater solidity in the paint, a key factor for the playoff battles ahead.