Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League is the newest platform where aspiring homegrown athletes can showcase their basketball skills and be able to compete in a professional arena. MPBL is the newest sports venture of Senator Manny Pacquiao. As an active and professional athlete himself, the 8 Division Boxing World Champion and certified baller, said that “This will support the youth who are interested in the sport. This will be a great help to them. From grassroots, we are going to discover good players. Hindi naman kami nakikipag-compete sa ibang liga, kundi ito ay ambag, tulong din sa pag-promote ng basketball dito sa Pilipinas. It’s possible that players who shine in the MPBL will eventually get the opportunity to be drafted by other leagues so it could be complementary”.
The league is open to athletes from a local communities, be it former collegiate or professional ballers. Teams are required to at least have 3 players that are truly homegrown to the area. “The advantage of this is really the pride of the players playing for their respective provinces and cities. We also believe that it will be more exciting because of the support of the fans for their teams.” As MPBL Commissioner and former professional cager, Kenneth Duremdes said.
ALV Events International Chairman and also Senator Pacquio’s Business Manager and overall Head of Production and Marketing of MPBL, Mr Arnold Vegafria said, “Through Senator Manny Pacquiao’s vision, we have a basketball league that truly reaches the grassroot level. Finally, Filipinos from all walks of life who have the talent and passion for the game will be able to show their mettle on the hardcourt. We are thankful for this opportunity and hope advertisers and basketball fans support this. This is another platform where Pinoys can find their potential basketball heroes”. Mr. Vegafria also in an interview said that, MPBL is open to support their league players when opportunities come for them to play in the international arena for compete for national pride.
Currently, MPBL has 10 teams from Metro Manila and Luzon. Bataan Defenders, Muntinlupa Cagers, Bulacan Kuyas, Valenzuela Classics, Batangas Tanduay Athletics, Caloocan Supremos, Paranaque Patriots, Navotas Clutch, Quezon City and Valenzuela. The future plan is to include teams from the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
The opening season will held in Smart Araneta Coliseum this coming Thursday at 7pm, January 25. An exciting match-up between Caloocan Supremos and Paranaque Patriots will tip-off at 9pm. Live Telecast is available and is presented by ALV Events International in partnership with ABS-CBN Sports+Action.
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