Don’t worry, there will still be the usual side events.
Three years removed from the PBA due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the All-Star Weekend returns on March 9 in Passi City, Iloilo.
Here are a few things fans can look forward to in the four-day festivities. Don’t worry, there will still be the usual side events like Obstacle Challenge, Slam Dunk Contest, and Three-Point Shootout.
Local 3x3
No, the PBA players will not compete in the 3x3 competition.
“Kausap din namin ang Passi City and gusto rin nilang maglaro ng 3x3 pero mga local teams. PBA lang ang magsu-supervise at magpapalaro, pero mga taga Iloilo teams ang sasali,” said commissioner Willie Marcial.
Shooting Stars
The PBA announced on its website that players will team up with local hoopers from the host province and possibly esports influencers, too.
Celebrities
Marcial said two to three celebrities will join each team in the Rookie-Sophomores versus Juniors side event.
The 10 players, who will be determined through fan voting, make up both teams. The top 4 rookies will be split on both squads.
“Baka dalawa or tatlong celebrities (per team), pero depende pa sa schedule nila. Pero nag-usap na kami ng TV5 na maglalaan sila ng celebrities,” Marcial said.
Draft system
The NBA format will be adapted this time.
As usual, fans get to choose which player they want to see in the All-Star game by way of online voting or voting in game venues. The 24 finalists (to be voted regardless of position) will make up the teams, with the top two vote-getters designated as team captains.
The two will then alternately choose players they want on their respective teams.
The coaches, meanwhile, will also be decided through fan voting.
Voting begins on January 25 and ends on February 15.