PBA chair wants league ‘Warriors’ vs China team friendlies
PBA board chairman Ricky Vargas. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—PBA Chairman Ricky Vargas came up with a plan to kickstart the league’s 46th season, proposing an exhibition match between the Chinese national team and a select squad.
In a statement, Vargas said that there could be a PBA Warriors selection team to go up against China with former Gilas coach Yeng Guiao leading the Filipino side.
“I think he would be perfect to lead a courageous charge for national pride and honor,” said Vargas of Guiao. “I would like to see Season 46 jumpstarted with this exhibition match, the technical aspects of which could be crafted by our tournament officials. We need to give our people inspiration and hope. I will even join the team in their ‘friendlies.’”
While Vargas envisioned a series of exhibition matches between Team Dragon and the select team, the most important thing to do is get the players vaccinated.
The PBA has yet to finalize the start for the 2021 season with the league pushing back tip-off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 cases in the Philippines have been in a spike with the total number of infections reaching 840,554 on Friday after 12,225 new cases were reported.
“We need to get all the players vaccinated as part of the country’s healing process. We need to rally our people towards a common goal. Let us all sacrifice for the greater good and for a stronger PBA. We will pivot, deliver, transform and perform,” said Vargas.
“Thank you Governors, for your unrelenting support and concern for the league and its fans. Let’s get the ball rolling as soon as possible!”
