MPBL set to turn professional before 2021 ends

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) will be taking a major step as they look to turn professional before 2021 ends.

Since Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas’ take over in the MPBL operations with the approval of founder and Senator Manny Pacquiao, the league is looking to regain its status as one of the country’s top-tier basketball leagues.

A part of that process is their decision to turn professional from a semi-pro league status since entering the scene three years ago.

“There will be changes but these changes will all be good for the league. Side-by-side yun po ang gagawin natin,” said Chooks’ spokesperson Mark Zambrano.

To acquire the professional playing status, the MPBL bared its plan of processing the requirements to acquire accreditation from FIBA.

Once the accreditation from FIBA will be received and the other requirements finished before the deadline strikes, the MPBL will now be upgraded to a professional league.

13 teams including the Iloilo United Royals have already confirmed their participation in the upcoming Chooks-to-Go MPBL Invitational Tournament from December 11-21 but the final playing venue is yet to be determined.

“Unang-una, nagpapasalamat kami sa lahat ng team owners na dumalo and, of course, sa Chooks-to-Go na nagkaroon tayo ng panibagong partnership. We both have a common goal which is to help our players reach their potential,” said commissioner Kenneth Duremdes.