Combine PBA-MBA team to Asiad nixed

Though the leadership dispute in the Basketball Association of the Philippines (BAP) not yet completely settled, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has made its position insofar as the 2002 Asian Games is concerned.

"If they want us to play, we’re here, but if they want somebody else, the best of luck to them," said PBA executive director Sonny Barrios.

Barrios told The Star that the PBA board of governors, in a meeting at the Edsa Shangri-La Plaza Monday, stressed they would keep their Asian Games commitment whoever emerges the legitimate president of the BAP.

Barrios said PBA commissioner Jun Bernardino had asked the board for its position on the Asian Games commitment though the BAP leadership dispute far from settled.

"We need to know where we stand so we can plan accordingly," said Barrios. Tiny Literal, the BAP head recognized by the FIBA, had earlier said he would bat for an all-star team made up of PBA and MBA players.

But Barrios said there would be a problem if the BAP calls for the formation of a PBA-MBA selection for the Pusan Games.

"Hindi pwede iyon," he said.

"The BAP has the right to pick which team to send to the games. But under our agreement, if they say we go to the games, we’ll have the authority to name the coach, then form and prepare the team. Of course, the financial (support) will come from us," said Barrios.