22 October 2015

PBA Opening is a Small Bang After All

Commissioner Narvasa
If the sparse crowd is any indication, then the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) should brace themselves for a very rough season ahead. Crowd estimated to be only 6,000 to 7,000 strong showed up at the Mall of Asia Arena and most of them could even be league officials and families.

The PBA was supposed to launch its latest season three days ago, but had to move it on a weekday after typhoon Lando battered the country over the weekend.

Commissioner Chito Narvasa cited the 'safety of our people is our priority' as the main reason why the league was forced to postpone for opening rites for the first time in league history.

League media bureau chief Willie Marcial said the modest turnout was somehow expected after the postponement.

"Maganda na ‘yung crowd considering the postponement of the opening day," said Marcial while the lone game between Rain or Shine and Star was ongoing.

"Kung natuloy yung linggo, puno dapat tayo. Malaki kasi yung ire-refund na mga tickets sa fans," said the league official, who refused to reveal the exact amount the league will have to refund to prove that they were really full that time.

What else is there to say?

Instead of tackling the issues and assuring the fans that they are doing everything to ensure parity in the league and fulfillment of their patriotic duties, Narvasa pushed for brainless innovations and changes.

"I hope that with our assurance that we will continue to work hard to bring the best and most exciting basketball games for your enjoyment and entertainment, you will continue your support and love for the heroes of the PBA," Narvasa said.

Narvasa failed to address important issues like the presence of 'farm teams' in the league, the very obvious lopsided trades, and the attempt to deny the Philippine team with quality players for the sake of corporate greed. Instead, the PBA is still pretending that its fans are taking everything in stride.

This could only one thing, more boycotts are in the offing.

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