Adjusting to the times

It seemed inevitable that with pandemic conditions still in sway, the opening of EASL’s inaugural season featuring a home-and-away format would be adjusted from Oct. 12 to a later date. Sure enough, EASL CEO Matt Beyer announced the other day the adjustment in the schedule, avoiding the difficult travel challenges that the eight participating teams would have had to face in playing road games throughout the campaign.

A few weeks back, several Bay Area Dragons tested positive and were confined to quarters at the Shangri-La The Fort, BGC, in isolation. They’ve been billeted at the hotel since Aug. 1 with their movements restricted. But it’s tough to predict how the infection sets in, particularly as the Omicron variant is a rapid spreader although delivering only mild symptoms. Luckily, the Dragons were cleared to play in time for their PBA debut last Sept. 21.

The concern was if players were infected during a road game, in the airplane or at the airport or wherever, they could bring the virus to their domestic league if undetected. The nightmare of a spread must have caused a lot of sleepless nights for organizers who undoubtedly shuddered at the thought that EASL would be accountable in the event of a chain reaction. Although travel restrictions are slowly being eased around the world, the threat of infection remains a harsh reality. “Controlling variables and operating our season in the most responsible manner reduces uncertainty for all our stakeholders as international travel throughout the region rebounds incrementally,” said Beyer. Another impediment was the issuance of visas for the traveling teams. Bay Area, for instance, would need multiple entry visas to go in and out of the Philippines where the Dragons are based. The logistical arrangements under COVID circumstances are serious obstacles.

From a home-and-away format, EASL will unveil its first season with a one-stop tournament system where eight teams, including the PBA’s San Miguel Beer and TNT, battle day by day to culminate in a Final Four and a championship game. EASL is calling it “Champions Week” and the games will be held in Manila early next year. Discussions are now ongoing between EASL and the participating teams to find the right timing for the contests without interrupting the schedule of the domestic leagues.

Beyer gave the assurance that if conditions cooperate, the second season will feature a home-and-away format in October next year. He said EASL’s goal of becoming one of the world’s top three professional basketball leagues remains the focus in terms of fan base and commercial revenue. From the media attention and fan following that EASL has generated in promoting the coming season, it’s right on track.