THE PBA board of governors has set a Nov. 20 kickoff for the inaugural PBA 3x3.
Commissioner Willie Marcial said the stand-alone 3x3 competition will be held at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City and will serve up exciting hoops action before 5-on-5 hostilities return in the import-flavored Governors' Cup later in the month.
"The PBA 3x3 will start before the Governors' Cup," said Marcial, who added that the season's second conference is being targeted for Nov. 26 or 28.
"The games in the PBA 3x3 will be aired live on TV5, One Sports and PBA Rush while the second conference has not yet started," Marcial added.
Thirteen teams, composed of 10 PBA franchises and three guest squads, will take part in the pilot three-a-side competition. They will play in three conferences per season, with each conference consisting of six two-day legs and one grand final.
Sponsored content:
An opening ceremony will be held before the initial salvo of action on Nov. 20 and 21.
According to Marcial, teams in the PBA 3x3 as well as the 5-on-5 regulars may already start practicing provided they secured local government unit clearances and met protocols.
The Governors' Cup will feature imports standing below 6-foot-6 led by returning Justin Brownlee of 2019 champion Barangay Ginebra and new faces led by NBA veteran Shabazz Muhhamad of Meralco.
Marcial thanked the Department of Foreign Affairs, led by Sec. Teddy Locsin and Usec. Dodo Dulay, and Sen. Bong Go for clearing the way for the imports' entry in the country and PBA stint.
The pro league, he added, is also coordinating with Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto in preparation for the 3x3 and the season-ending Governors' Cup.(OL)
Sponsored content:
