MANILA, Philippines?The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas scored a point against the Basketball Association of the Philippines when the Court of Appeals reversed an earlier court ruling that declared the Manny V. Pangilinan-led group?s election null and void.

The BAP had earlier filed a civil case against the SBP, claiming the present SBP leadership is illegal. The Manila Regional Trial Court had ruled in favor of the BAP.

But sources at the SBP camp said the CA decision reversed the ruling after the SBP appealed the Sept. 3 decision of the RTC.

Meanwhile, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) confirmed the proposed merger between Asia and Oceania in the 2011 FIBA Championship but assured the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas the move will not in any way affect the title bid of the Philippines.

SBP executive director Noli Eala said the FIBA decided to include Australia and New Zealand to the Asian zone, but Asian countries will still fight for the lone slot for the 2012 London Olympics.