PBA enforces stricter protocols for playing teams

PBA is tweakings its health protocols a week into the new season. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The PBA tweaked its mask and distance protocols a week into the 46th season, which has already seen the postponement of four games.

Players sitting on the bench are strictly required to keep their masks on during the game while the coaches are only permitted to take theirs off when giving out instructions. However, they are advised to put it back on after talking to their players.

Only the 10 players active in the game are exempted from wearing their masks.

Teams violating the protocols will be given warnings during the game but will be slapped with a corresponding technical foul on improper bench decorum when they fail to heed the referees’ calls.

Players will also be assigned seats, which would be marked by their jersey numbers, in a pre-game arrangement that would be given upon arrival at Ynares Sports Arena.

The players’ personal belongings such as towels, water bottles, masks, and other essentials should be placed on the left side of their seats while their warmers, the moment they enter the game, will be left on their respective chairs.

Players who get subbed out will proceed to a rest area beside the team bench to catch his breath before he returns to his seat and wear his mask.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial said the new health protocols were applied as part of the league’s effort to improve the safety of the players, coaches, and other personnel during the season.

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