PBA, Cignal launch TV network’s ‘PBA Rush’

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Basketball Association breaks new ground as it has partnered with cable TV provider Cignal for the launch of PBA Rush, a TV network dedicated to PBA shows patterned after NBA TV.

PBA Rush, available in standard definition on Channel 52 and high definition on Channel 129, has actually been airing test broadcast since early July, running replays of the Philippine Cup, the Commissioner’s Cup and the recently held FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament at the MOA Arena.

The PBA and Cignal formally launched PBA Rush Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a contract-signing session between league commissioner Chito Narvasa and Cignal president Jane Basas.

The initial pact runs up to 2019, with both parties to sit down and review the deal after a year run of the TV program that will feature regular games and PBA-related specials including analyses and documentaries.

The network also broadcasts the PBA D-League <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_D-League>, women’s 3-on-3 and Batang PBA games. Both sides are also looking at bringing back games from the early PBA years or those falling in the “greatest games” category.

It’s a PBA network showcasing every play, every game, everyday. “It’s PBA 24/7,” said Basas.

“Cignal wanted a way to solidify our relationship with Filipino sports fans,” Basas also said. “We all know that for Philippine basketball, there is only one brand, the PBA.”

“What we want to do is make the PBA closer to Filipino basketball fans,” said Narvasa.

Also present during the contract-signing were Cignal TV vice president for marketing Guido Zaballero, Cignal TV head of channels management Sienna Olaso and Sports5 head Patricia Hizon.

PBA Rush will air PBA games live in simulcast with TV5. Both TV5 and Cignal are under the giant MVP conglomerate of business mogul Manny V. Pangilinan.

The Cignal marketing team is looking to cater to millions of households that follow PBA games.

The PBA Commissioner’s Office, meanwhile, formed a creative department to oversee special projects like PBA Rush. This falls under the jurisdiction of Pita Dobles, special assistant to the league commissioner.