What's Next for the PBA?

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) scheduled the opening of the new season this month, but thanks to the spike of new 2019 Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) cases, that isn't happening. While there's no official word yet on the league's plans about the opening of the 46th season, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial revealed that they are taking actions to survive during another round of hiatus.

First off, the commissioner recommended a 20% salary cut for all teams- including players, members of the coaching staff, and other employees. However, the salary cut will not affect the workers from the utility side of the game, such as the ball boys. On Tuesday, the league informed players and team managers of the said recommendation.

The good news is: the PBA will restore full salaries once scrimmages are allowed.

And since the country is still battling another surge of COVID-19 cases, we might see a 3x3 league first before the 5x5 games. That is according to PBA Vice-Chairman Bobby Rosales.

"We feel it is easier to start the 3x3 because there are fewer personnel involved," Rosales said during a press conference on Tuesday.

The inaugural season of the PBA 3X3 will feature 16 teams- 10 existing PBA teams plus six newcomers.

Speaking of the 5x5, a bubble set-up for the Philippine Cup remains an option for the PBA, just like it did when it held a bubble conference in Clark last year. Although this time, the PBA bubble might happen further north than Clark.

Ilocos Norte

Marcial revealed the offer made by the provincial government of Ilocos Norte as there are initial talks between the PBA, Governor Matthew Manotoc, and Perry Martinez, who is the head of the Metro Ilocos Norte Council. While Marcial said that the PBA is thankful to Manotoc, Vice-Chairman Rosales remained firm on the direction that the PBA wishes to tackle.

"The direction of the PBA as of now is the vaccine, but we aren't closing the door on the bubble," Rosales said.

Photo is from the PBA website