Coaches to stand by PBA decision

While itching to return to action, PBA coaches understand the current situation, saying they have full trust in the pro league doing the right thing with regards to the disrupted Season 45.

Asia’s first play-for-pay league faces a possible cancellation of the entire season – if not being limited to one conference – with the community quarantine and preventive measures like physical distancing and ban on mass gatherings expected to drag on in the absence of a vaccine against COVID-19.

“We all miss basketball. I know I do. But what’s best for our fans and those who work in the league is what’s important,” said Meralco coach Norman Black.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial has raised fear of scrapping the entire season due to the pandemic.

“Social distancing is almost impossible to implement at a basketball game so you can imagine that is a major concern moving forward,” Black said.

“I think we should remember that our PBA leaders are businessmen whose teams are now on the shelf because of the virus. So, I’m sure no one is happy with the situation,” he added.

Health and safety, he maintained, should be of paramount concern at this time.

“This virus is bigger than all of us and there are citizens who are suffering because of it. That should be where our focus is right now,” Black said.

“I trust that whatever decision the PBA board and commissioner come up with will be in the best interest of everyone,” he added.

TNT consultant Mark Dickel echoed the sentiment of the grand slam-winning coach.

“Obviously, everyone wants to play,” Dickel said. “Commissioner Marcial will follow the guidelines set down from government and health professionals.”