Aside from retooling its management, the Pilipinas Super League is now beginning to embrace its growing family.
From Philippine Basketball Association legends Allan Caidic and Gerry Esplana to new president Cris Bautista, the PSL is bound to become the next big thing in local basketball.
Caidic, a PBA Hall of Famer and a former Most Valuable Player, will serve as PSL commissioner, providing expertise and credibility to the league that had attracted participants from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Caidic will be joined by his former Presto teammate Esplana, who will run the day-to-day operations of this expanding league.
Known as the Triggerman for his deadly outside shooting during his playing days, Caidic will be the third former PBA superstar who will helm the PSL after Marc Pingris and Leo Isaac.
And then, there’s Bautista.
Bautista has been involved in various leagues either as a commissioner or a top-level management executive like the VisMin Super Cup, Ballout and PSL U21.
Having a solid group that oversees the league means that the PSL family will be well taken care of.
Former Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League champion Nueva Ecija leads the teams who will vie for pride and glory in this fast-rising league.
The Rice Vanguards were not supposed to suit up but made a change of heart after getting an early boot in the playoffs of the Fifth Season of the MPBL.
Also competing are Alpha Omega and Manila Stars, who both opened their campaigns on a high note, as well as Bagong Kalibo Ati-Atihan, Batang Kankaloo, Bicol Spicy Oragons, Binan Tatak Gel, Cainta NKT Sniper, Cam Norte Warriors, Davao Occidental Tigers, JT Bulacan Taipan, Kyusi Pablo Escobets, Makati Circus Music Festival, MisOr Mustangs, 1Munti Emeralds, Novaliches Warriors, Pampanga Royce, Quezon Titans, RCP-Shawarna Shack, San Juan Kings and Strong Group Athletics.
With 20 teams and counting, there is no doubt that the PSL has nowhere to go but up.
More teams, more games, more livelihood for the players, coaches and staff.
It’s time to make way for this new professional league that provides an avenue for players who are looking to harness their skills before jumping into the PBA.
The PSL will be here until summer next year, proving that basketball truly never stops.
