AFTER a successful debut season, Hapee plans to formalize its bid to jump from the PBA D-League to the pro ranks.
But the Fresh Fighters hope the PBA will grant not only their membership request, but also a concession to bring at least three players from their current roster.
“The letter of intent is already done and we are going to submit it to the PBA office soonest,” said Dr. Cecilio Pedro, president and CEO of Lamoiyan Corp., makers of Hapee.
“We really want to join the PBA, but the problem is, will the PBA allow us to bring several of our star players?”
Team manager Bernard Yang said the Fresh Fighters intend to elevate Ray Parks, Garvo Lanete and Troy Rosario, who played major roles in their championship run in the Aspirants Cup and their runner-up finish in the Foundation Cup.
“We’ll be happy if we can bring the three, but again that will depend on the PBA,” said Yang.
Last year, the PBA admitted KIA, Blackwater and NLEX, bringing the number of teams to 12.
NLEX and Blackwater, also former D-League titlists, also requested to elevate some of their players, but the PBA offered them other concessions instead. Jasmine W. Payo