Coke-Batang PBA caging under way

MANILA, Philippines - The annual Coca-Cola-Batang PBA Summer Basketball League gets going today at the Astrodome with various teams from Metro Manila carrying the colors of the league’s 10 member ballclubs competing.

The league’s summer treat is for kids aged 9-12 years old.

Today’s double-header will be determined by lottery. The first match will start after a short opening ceremony scheduled at 11 a.m.

“Kids have been looking forward to this tournament every summer and I’m sure this year’s edition will be another fun-filled experience to all the participants,” said PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios. 

The teams will be divided into two groups with each playing a single round robin. The top two teams in each group will advance to the crossover semifinal.

 Bracketed in Group A are defending champion Quezon City-Talk N’ Text, Caloocan-Derby Ace, Taytay-Air 21, Muntinlupa-San Miguel and Manila-Barako Coffee. Comprising Group B are San Juan-Rain or Shine, Pasig-Sta. Lucia, Cainta-Barangay Ginebra, Alaska-Antipolo and Marikina-Coca-Cola.

 The finalists of the tournament will both advance to the Coca-Cola-Batang PBA National Finals.