The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is pulling out all the stops for its landmark 50th season—bringing the action not just to local courts, but to passionate Filipino fans across the globe.
In a major announcement following the PBA board of governors’ meeting on Wednesday, the league confirmed official games will be held in Dubai on October 25, and in Bahrain on December 15 and 17.
PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial revealed that negotiations are also underway to stage games in Abu Dhabi, Doha (Qatar), Saudi Arabia, and even New York, in what is shaping up to be the most international PBA season yet.
“This is not just a celebration of basketball in the Philippines, but a tribute to Filipinos worldwide who’ve kept their love for the game alive,” Marcial said.
International flavor at home
Back on home soil, the PBA is preparing for an added twist—games featuring guest teams from Macau, Hong Kong, and Indonesia.
“All of them have expressed strong interest in playing in the PBA. The board is open to it, and it’s possible we’ll see all three join,” said Marcial.
The guest teams are expected to compete in one of the import-laced conferences, either the Governors’ Cup or the Commissioner’s Cup, though final details are still being ironed out.
Meralco Bolts to carry the flag in EASL
While the league broadens its reach, one PBA team is set to take on international competition in the East Asia Super League (EASL). The Meralco Bolts will represent the PBA in the upcoming EASL season.
The league has decided to send just one team this year due to the EASL’s expanded schedule.
“There are a lot more games now, so it’s difficult to have two teams competing. It would be too tight for our calendar,” Marcial explained.
From Manila to the Middle East and beyond, the PBA’s golden season is shaping up to be one for the history books—celebrating five decades of basketball excellence and a growing global Filipino fanbase.