CEBU CITY, Philippines—Basketball startup Filipino Basketball League (FilBasket) pushes through with its tipoff on Thursday, October 28, 2021, with three exciting games at the Subic Bay Gymnasium in Subic, Zambales.
Thursday’s games include San Juan Knights Go For Gold vs. the 7A Primus at 3:30 p.m., Burlington EOG Sports vs. Nueva Ecija Bespren at 5:40 p.m., and Davao Occidental Tigers Cocolife vs. AICC Manila at 7:50 p.m.
Several Cebuanos are playing in this league such as reigning Cesafi MVP Shaq Imperial, who will play for Medical Depot alongside other Cebuanos i Patrick Jan Cabahug, Reeve Ugsang, and Dawn Ochea.
READ: Cesafi MVP Shaq Imperial brings talent to FilBasket
FilBasket founder Jai Reyes already clarified that their long-term plan is for the league to turn pro as their inaugural season on Thursday is classified as amateur.
“In the near future, hopefully Filbasket grows to be able to execute its business plans. then, Filbasket will fit the description of a pro league and we are excited to work with the GAB and their requirements such as the paperwork and fees,” said on the statement from Filbasket osted on October 23, 2021.
Recently, the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) warned FilBasket about legal repercussions if they push through with their tipoff without proper approval from them.
It was reported that there was a miscommunication between GAB and league officials who only coordinated and got permits from the regional IATF and the LGU of Zambales to hold the 26-day tournament featuring 11 teams.
In a statement, FilBasket reiterated that the league aims to provide basketball players, coaches, and officials a chance to earn through the league’s allowances amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
A total of 300 individuals comprised of players, coaches, officials, and staff of the league will benefit from the short tournament.
League officials will impose strict bubble setup and will follow IATF’s health and safety guidelines to prevent COVID-19 transmission.
/bmjo