After successfully getting its footing back from the after-effects of the pandemic with a record-breaking season last year, the PBA has now begun its preparations for the upcoming 48th season.
Commissioner Willie Marcial said the league is already setting up activities and events that will serve as a lead up to the new season which will open with the Commissioner’s Cup on Oct. 15.
The league will have its annual rookie draft on Sept. 17 at the Market Market while the PBA press con is slated on Oct. 12. A 3k, 5k and 10k fun run event is also set on Sept. 27 in Bridgetown, Pasig, with PBA players also expected to participate.
Just like last year, the Bay Area Dragons will join as a guest team although will not enjoy the same perks it had last season when they were able to bring in two imports in Myles Powell and Andrew Nicholson.
“Imports nila katulad na rin ng imports ng PBA, isang import lang, kung magpapalit ka, kung paano lang rin magpalit ang PBA,” said Marcial during the Philippines Sportswriters Association Sports Forum on Tuesday, Aug. 8.
According to Marcial, at least three PBA teams could also play in Hong Kong which will serve as the Dragons home court in the East Asia Super League.
“May pinaguusapan na baka mag laro ng three games sa Hong Kong pinag-usapan namin ni Matt Beyer. Itong nararating na conference baka maglaro sa Hong Kong, di ko pa masabi di pa talagang finalized pero 80 percent maglalaro sa Hong Kong,” added Marcial.
Aside from the schedule and possible venue, another being discussed are the possible rule changes, some of which already implemented in the PBA on Tour that can be applied for the upcoming season.