CEBU, Philippines — An exciting blend of former collegiate standouts, commercial veterans and ex-PBA stars will troop to the southern Cebu town of Alcantara next week for the historic Pilipinas Vismin Super Cup, which will be staged behind closed doors starting on April 9.
Barring any hitches, Super Cup secretary-general coach Chelito Caro said out-of-town teams from Bohol, Siquijor and Dumaguete will be arriving in Cebu City en route to Alcantara on March 27 at the latest or 12 days before the inaugural season of the country’s newest professional basketball league begins.
They will be joined by the MJAS Zenith-Talisay City Aquastars, ARQ Builders/Lapu-Lapu City Heroes, KCS-Mandaue City, and a team from Tabogon north of Cebu.
All teams including their staff are mandated to undergo Covid-19 test and only only those with negative results will be allowed to enter the bubble for the month-long tournament under strict health and safety protocols.
While Alcantara headed by mayor Fritz Lastimoso is the main host, everyone involved in the league will be billeted in various resorts in Moalboal. They will be transported by bus to and fro the playing venue.
“We’re all set and ready for our historic season. We’re leaving no stone unturned for the success of our maiden tournament and I thank all those who have supported us along the way,” Caro said.
The seven contenders will play in a double round elimination, with the top two gaining outright semifinal berths. Only one will take an early exit.
Teams No.3 vs No.6 and No.4 vs No.5 will figure in a knockout play. The winners will proceed to the semis and play against the top two seeds, which will enjoy twice-to-beat advantage. The finals is a best-of-three series.