MBA to name new commish, tackle Waves' case

The board of governors of the Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA) convenes today to name a new commissioner to replace Ramon Fernandez, decide on the fate of the Pangasinan Waves and discuss a new format for the incoming season.

Former PBL commissioner Ogie Narvasa and former Toyota head coach Dante Silverio have been identified as the top candidates for the post vacated by Fernandez, who stepped down late last year along with deputy commissioner Edgardo Cordero.

Fernandez and Cordero are now with the FedEx-backed Laguna Lakers as general manager and head coach, respectively.

From an original list of 11 names, which included Hall of Famer Caloy Loyzaga, Tommy Manotoc, and Rudy Salud, the race eventually became a toss-up between Narvasa and Silverio.

The fate of the Pangasinan Waves and the revised tournament format will likewise be on tap in today's 2 p.m. meeting at the Ortigas Center headquarters of the MBA.

Pangasinan, after two forgettable seasons found itself on the brink of bankruptcy after several backers pulled out, forcing Waves officials to file for a possible leave of absence.

It was gathered though that Lakers team owner Bert Lina came to the rescue of the beleaguered Pangasinan five, offering to lend financial support which Waves co-owner Tim Orbos welcomed.

Officials are hoping a favorable decision will come out this afternoon to ensure the smooth opening of the third season which unfolds Feb. 13 in Sta. Cruz, Laguna and General Santos City.