PBA imports measurement set

MANILA, Philippines — With the inaugural PBA 3x3 already off and running, the PBA is now preparing the grounds for its import-flavored Governors’ Cup.

After two All-Filipino tournaments, the PBA is welcoming back foreign reinforcements standing below 6-foot-6. Around seven or eight of the imports are in town.

“Anytime this week, gagawin na natin ang (height) measurement ng imports,” said commissioner Willie Marcial.

According to Marcial, the pro league is coordinating with the local government units in Metro Manila and Antipolo for potential venues for the second conference.

These include the PBA’s old grounds such as the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, the Ynares Center in Antipolo City and the Filoil Arena in San Juan.

“Sumulat na kami kay Pasay Mayor (Imelda) Calixto-Rubiano, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Rizal Gov. Nini Ynares, Antipolo Mayor Andrea Bautista Ynares and Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto for the games na hopefully with fans,” Marcial said yesterday.

“Kausap na rin namin si San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora. Although ginagamit na vaccination center ang Filoil, just in case lang, makalaro tayo doon. Tinitignan namin lahat ng options,” he added.

The PBA has set an initial tip-off of Nov. 28 but Marcial maintained this is still fluid and dependent on how soon the imports will be good to go.

“May mga quarantine pa sila, at kapag nakalabas na, kailangan pang bigyan ng time mag-practice with the teams. Kung kailangang i-adjust ang opening, mag-adjust tayo,” Marcial said.

While waiting for 5-on-5 action, the PBA rolled out its standalone 3x3 league featuring 13 clubs, over the weekend in the Pasig venue with the TNT Tropang Giga ruling the first leg. The second leg fires off tomorrow.

“Good start. Exciting ang games, makikita mo lahat ng players all-out, lalo na pagdating ng playoffs,” said Marcial.