Blue-chip rookies, balanced field ensure exciting season

With what the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has in store for fans, the league’s 32nd season promises to be more exciting than ever before.

PBA commissioner Noli Eala yesterday explained three reasons why the mood is upbeat.

First is the entry of a new batch of rookies.

"They’re extremely talented and they’ve got a big following," said Eala. "I think the rookies are more prepared to make an impact in the league than last year’s batch. Their skills level is exceptionally high."

Among the blue-chippers debuting this season are Sta. Lucia Realty’s Kelly Williams, Mark Isip and Ronnie Bughao, Air21’s Arwind Santos, Coca-Cola’s Joseph Yeo, San Miguel Beer’s L. A. Tenorio and Gabby Espinas, Alaska’s Aaron Aban and Christian Luanzon, Talk ‘N’ Text’s Mark Andaya, Purefoods’ Boyet Bautista, Red Bull’s Magnum Membrere and Welcoat’s Jay-R Reyes, Jun-Jun Cabatu, Jay Sagad and Abby Santos.

Second is Welcoat’s arrival to complete a 10-team cast.

"Make no mistake about it, Welcoat won’t be a whipping boy in the league," said Eala. "The team may not immediately contend for a championship but it’ll be competitive. Welcoat has a championship tradition in the PBL (Philippine Basketball League) and I expect that tradition to carry over to the PBA. A new team also gives the league a fresh look. With Welcoat, each team plays 18 games in the elimination round and we estimate a two-conference format to consist of about 140 games, including playoffs, from 114 last season."

Coach Leo Austria’s Dragons will be beefed up by comebacking Jojo Tangkay, rookie free agent Froilan Baguion (undrafted last year), Rob Wainwright, Joey Mente, Nino Gelig, Gilbert Lao, Adonis Sta. Maria and Denver Lopez.

Third is more balanced competition this year.

"The rookies went to the right teams," said Eala. "Take Williams’ case, for example. He brings a whole new look to Sta. Lucia and makes the team a contender again. Then, there were trades and free agent pick-ups that strengthened the teams all around."

Ginebra San Miguel had no draft pick last month but coach Joseph Uichico bolstered his lineup with acquisitions Rudy Hatfield, Billy Mamaril, Johnny Abarrientos and Rafi Reavis. Air21 swapped for Aris Dimaunahan and Ervin Sotto while Coca-Cola signed up Kalani Ferreria and Manny Ramos. Poch Juinio returned to Alaska and Willie Wilson moved to San Miguel Beer. In all, over 15 veterans switched teams in the off- season.

Eala said to enhance marketing values, the PBA will launch new efforts in media and introduce a "torch-bearers" program where 12 stars are to lead the way to growth as the "Astig 12."

On the social responsibility aspect, Eala said the league will tie up with the Department of Health in a "Wellness" campaign to promote a healthy lifestyle through programs on anti-drugs, nutrition and physical fitness.

"This is our version of the NBA Cares," said Eala. "It’s relevant to the PBA because we’re involved in sports and committed to a holistic approach in promoting wellness."

Eala said this season, the league will schedule games in three main venues — the Araneta Coliseum where 60 percent of the contests will be played, the Ynares Center and the Cuneta Astrodome. Four non-traditional venues in Metro Manila — the Olivarez Gym in Parañaque, the San Juan Arena, the Ninoy Aquino Stadium and the Rizal Memorial Coliseum — will also be tapped to broaden markets.

Provincial outings are earmarked in Leyte, Isabela, La Union, General Santos City, Tubod in Lanao del Norte, Lucena, Pampanga and the Bicol region. An overseas game between Red Bull and Alaska is set in Guam this Thursday.

Eala said another overseas game is being negotiated in Singapore on Oct. 29. It will likely pit Sta. Lucia against Talk ‘N’ Text in a doubleheader with an Australian National Basketball League (NBL) game.

Because of the country’s suspension by FIBA, Singapore organizers were hesitant to invite the PBA to play but NBL commissioner Rick Burton found a way to bring in the Filipino clubs as part of a twinbill. The NBL recently added an expansion team, the Singapore Slingers owned by Bob Turner, to its fold.