PBA opens door to foreign clubs

If the stars align, the PBA’s import-flavored Commissioner’s Cup may again feature a foreign guest team.

MANILA, Philippines — After the success of the Bay Area Dragons’ stint in 2022, Asia’s first play-for-pay league is working on the possible participation of the HK Eastern quintet in the tournament.

The PBA is also considering the Singapore Slingers for a slot in the mid-season conference.

League officials have placed the two as options to follow the lead of the Dragons, who engaged Barangay Ginebra in a high-level showdown for the crown highlighted by a record crowd of 54,589.
“There are limitless marketing and sponsorship opportunities for both the PBA and Hong Kong Eastern,” said Ginebra governor Alfrancis Chua who joined commissioner Willie Marcial in a meeting with HK Eastern chairman Frankie Yau, sporting director Tony Wong and basketball team manager Oliver Lee the other day.

“We’re looking at the big picture and based on the Bay Area experience, this could start a new chapter in PBA history where East Asia becomes a major segment of our market. This is hand-in-hand with our EASL partnership.”

Under the initial proposal, HK Eastern is to play six home games at the new Kai Tak Sports Park and six road games in Manila during the eliminations. If it qualifies for the playoffs, a home-and-away format may also be applied.
Chua will brief the PBA board of the preliminary talks with HK in its scheduled planning session for Season 49 in Osaka, Japan. Marcial designated PBA deputy commissioner Eric Castro to a task force with Wong, Lee and EASL Philippine head Banjo Albano to iron out details of an agreement.

As it opens the doors to foreign clubs, the PBA has likewise reaffirmed its international commitment.

The league will field Commissioner’s Cup titlist San Miguel Beer and Philippine Cup kingpin Meralco to the East Asia Super League’s 2024-25 season.

The Beermen will play in Group A versus Japan B. League rulers Hiroshima, Korean runner-up Suwon KT Sonicboom and Taiwan P. League + second placer Taoyuan Pauian Pilots. The Bolts will face B. League bridesmaid Ryukyu, KBL rulers Busan KCC and P. League champs New Taipei Kings.

“The PBA is excited to send two of its champion teams to compete in the EASL,” said Marcial. “The Beermen and the Bolts will represent Filipino basketball with pride, and we hope that one of them will be crowned the champion of East Asia next season.”