Salud ‘positive’ about new PBA rules

BANGKOK—New Philippine Basketball Association commissioner Chito Salud on Sunday said he is “positive” that the rules modifications he wants implemented for the coming season will meet little resistance from the league’s board of governors.   “Modifications, if there are any, will be minor,” Salud said shortly before joining a meeting with the PBA governors at the Amari Watergate Hotel here to discuss the path the league would take under his stewardship.   “I am very positive about it,” added the second generation commissioner.   Chito, whose father, Rodrigo, steered the league to some of its most glorious years as the third commissioner, said the “no-flopping” rule has been popularly received by the board.   Another change is the use of the instant TV replay in order to come up with the correct call. Coaches need not challenge a three-point shot now as game officials will make corrections on borderline cases during the game.   Instant replays can also aid in solving challenges in ball possession in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter and in overtime.   The board will also discuss the inclusion of three PBA MVPs in the Smart Gilas Pilipinas five lineup to the Asian Games in China in November.   Kelly Williams of Talk ‘N Text, Asi Taulava of Powerade and reigning MVP James Yap of Derby Ace are being wooed by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to join the RP Asiad campaign following a request from national coach Rajko Toroman.   Yap, who helped Derby Ace win the Philippine Cup last season, may not be available after undergoing an operation that removed polyps from his nose recently.   Rene Pardo of Derby Ace will formally take over as the new season’s chair during the meeting with lawyer Mamerto Mondragon of Rain or Shine and Jose Bayani Baylon of Powerade to be named vice chair and treasurer, respectively.   All 10 team representatives to the board are present, plus Buddy Encarnado of former member Sta. Lucia Realty as the league will also tackle the formation of its own developmental league which Encarnado, according to reports, will head.   Meanwhile, a special fashion show entitled “Pormang PBA” will be held on Sept. 26 at the Araneta Coliseum.