RP 5 tapped for ABA World Cup

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – The American Basketball Association global expansion provides opportunity for Filipino players to showcase their talent on the world stage, according to newly named ABA Global vice chairman Paul Monozca.

Monozca, a Filipino international financier tasked to handle ABA’s $200-million global program, said he received concessions beneficial to Philippine basketball in joining the ABA, including a wildcard berth to play in the ABA World Basketball Cup in Atlanta in 2011.

“I had an initial discussion with SBP executive director Noli Eala. He expressed serious interest to join the World Cup. So most likely it would be the Smart Gilas representing the Philippines in the Atlanta meet,” said Monozca.

There’s also the ABA China Games from March to July next year, and Monozca said the Philippines has also been assured slots in this tourney, representing the Southeast Asian region.

PBA teams Barangay Ginebra, San Miguel Beer and Burger King are among RP ball clubs which have expressed interest to join the event that will feature tough teams from the US, Europe and the host country.

“This will be a sponsored tourney. The Philippine teams will compete without cost. This is a tough competition and the Philippine teams will be allowed to field three imports with two allowed to play at a time,” said Monozca.

To top this, Monozca said a maximum of 10 Filipino players might be able to see action in the ABA next season, giving them the opportunity to be seen by NBA scouts.

“This falls under the ABA’s player exchange program. I have asked the ABA for its top 10 teams to open a slot each for a Filipino player. These 10 ABA teams must select one Filipino player once every three years,” said Monozca.

La Salle has agreed to join the program and sent coach Dindo Pumaren to attend the 2009 ABA Summit slated Tuesday at the Las Vegas Country Club.

Monozca, however, stressed the ABA exchange program is open to amateur and professional players.

“This is really a big door being opened to our players. It’s now up to them to showcase their talent,” Monozca said.

If plans don’t miscarry, a Philippine team may even be allowed to play as a regular participant in the ABA.

“The league has allowed a Chinese team adopted by a local city to play in the ABA. The idea is for Smart Gilas to play carrying the banner of Daly City which has a huge Filipino community,” said Monozca.

“This is all about showing the world the capabilities of Pinoy basketball talent,’’ Monozca also said.

Monozca and ABA chief executive officer Joe Newman presented comprehensive plans in expanding professional basketball worldwide during the ABA summit.

Among those expected to grace the summit are former ABA stars Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Moses Malone, George “The Iceman” Gervin, Connie Hawkins, George McGinnis, Dan Issel and David Thompson.