More players, more fun, more wins?
Call them and they will be ready.
The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) is willing to loan players to the country’s national basketball program, according to its commissioner, PBA legend Kenneth Duremdes.
In an interview with former PBA commissioner Noli Eala on Power and Play, Duremdes expressed the league’s openness to contribute to the Gilas program of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
“Yes, we would love to, kung mabigyan tayo ng chance to be a part of SBP family,” Duremdes told Eala on Saturday.
The former PBA MVP said they believe MPBL can help fill the gap in some of SBP’s international basketball commitments.
“Para ‘yung mga calendars nila na hindi nila kayang ma-accommodate, like some pocket tournaments na kailangan nating salihan, we would love to do that,” he said. “Magbibigay kami talaga ng time for that especially if you’re representing the national team.”
He elaborated that the regional pro league, founded by boxing icon and now-senator Manny Pacquiao, will be happy to don the Gilas colors in any tournament, even if those are just minor tilts.
“Talagang gustong gusto rin ni Senator Manny maka-represent tayo, kahit papaano. Small tournament will do for us. We’ll be proud [to do] it.”
Duremdes admitted he has no complete idea on how the process will unfold, but he said they’re ready to work with SBP.
“Baka kailangan maging member muna ng SBP. From there on, nasa kanila ‘yung bola if ever they need our help to provide players.”
The MPBL is opening its fifth season today at Lucena City, Quezon.