2022–23 PBA Commissioner's Cup

[LogitechMouse]

they should challenge the dominance of Ginebra in commissioners cap.

Or more appropriate to hope that independent teams should be able to challenge the dominance of SMC or MVP teams regardless of the conference.

Referring to the list of imports looks like all SMC teams really found a good import. It will be a tough challenge again for independent teams to compete that's why aside from relying on their import, the local players should adjust and do their best to support them.

Few days to go before the opening of the next conference.

I'd like to see those independent teams dominating the conference like what it was few decades ago.
Now we are only seeing MVP and SMC in the Semi-Finals. That's what's happening for years already and it looks like there is no way that this will stop.

I like to see independent teams dominating those SMC and MVP rather than seeing Ginebra dominating again in the Commissioners Cup. The problem with the independent teams right now is that, they can't afford some imports unlike MVP and SMC where they can just get any import that's fit to their team. I mean there are some players who SMC and MVP can't afford but comparing to independent teams, they are way behind that's why they can't dominate in a conference where there is an import.

I'm still hoping that balance of the roster in each team and competitiveness will rise again in PBA.

[Fredomago]

This time, I don't think Ginebra will win the championship again despite having Brownlee who is undeniably a good import, why? Because with a healthy Fajardo, he can still dominate inside and with the help of their import, it will be easier for him. If we have a championship odds now, I'm guessing SMB will be the top favorites to win.

SMB is like having 2 imports in the upcoming conference now that JuneMar Fajardo is playing like in his prime. In the last conference, he is consistent in doing a monster performance from eliminations, quarterfinals, and semi-finals up to the Finals. Only an import can stop him but if that's the case, how can teams able to stop the real import of SMB?

SMB is like a tough team to beat again. CJ Perez is also playing in his prime and Terrene Romeo might return next conference. There are also other big men in the SMB that is tough to guard like Mo Tautaa and Vic Manuel. A powerhouse team.

This is also my observation and I think SMB Beermen really has the chance to win this Commissioner's Cup because of a healthy Fajardo and looks like he is making a case for his 7th MVP trophy. With a tall import, Fajardo's playing minutes might decrease but this is good as he won't be gassed out in the final quarter if he is still needed, and with CJ Perez adjusting very well to the system of coach Leo, ohh boy SMB is really a scary team now more than ever.

Ginebra will be having a hard time this coming conference even if they have Brownlee because of the reason i've stated above but i just hope that independent teams will have a good showing this time and not just play for the sake of playing, they should have the motivation especially now that the controversy in the PBA reached the Senate.

I have a strong feeling that it might happen I mean independent team may come up and be in semis or possible in the finals to save PBA's butt, the news are getting hotter with regard to these two giant companies, to make it calm I'm assuming or predicting if that's much better that PBA will try to bring those independent team on top to gain the attention and to forget the issue, covering up as always, though it's just my speculation and only inside my wild interpretation just to cover SMB and MVP's butt.

The dogs will do everything to impress and save their boss for a great meal..

[blockman]

The problem with PBA right now isn't with the money that can be used in adding a team because like @blockman said, the companies will shoulder the expenses including the franchise and the salaries of the players.

This might be harsh and only my speculation but the problem why PBA isn't expanding because our commissioner is being controlled by 2 big companies (I will not say their names, but you know which companies I'm talking about). There are many companies that are interested in joining the PBA. Companies like SM, establishments like Cebuana and I think even Chooks to go is interested as well. The problem is these 2 companies are using Commissioner to not let them enter that's why PBA isn't adding more teams now. My speculation only but I guess some already knew it.

You've said it just as what I was thinking and also what I've read from people over social media. It is these commissioners who are only protecting their self-interest but no really love for the league and for the sport. We all like basketball but these officials are really doing it for themselves and not for the country. Just look what they're doing to Navaro, he's set to play for a league in South Korea but he can't get clearance to the SBP. These two are suckers of our countries, PBA and SBP officials, they're all connected.

[Johnyz]

they should challenge the dominance of Ginebra in commissioners cap.

Or more appropriate to hope that independent teams should be able to challenge the dominance of SMC or MVP teams regardless of the conference.

Referring to the list of imports looks like all SMC teams really found a good import. It will be a tough challenge again for independent teams to compete that's why aside from relying on their import, the local players should adjust and do their best to support them.

Few days to go before the opening of the next conference.

This is way better, the dominance of SMC and MVP really working in PBA for years now and it’s too hard for other companies to compete with the top teams, they should be able to acquire good players and pay them with a rewarding package, most probably the top teams are paying them very well and that’s why their key players stays. PBA should also allow more trade without protecting the interest of the top teams. It’s getting near, let’s see if other teams will prevail this time, I’m really looking forward to see the play of all imports.

[jakelyson]

I'd like to see those independent teams dominating the conference like what it was few decades ago.
Now we are only seeing MVP and SMC in the Semi-Finals. That's what's happening for years already and it looks like there is no way that this will stop.

I like to see independent teams dominating those SMC and MVP rather than seeing Ginebra dominating again in the Commissioners Cup. The problem with the independent teams right now is that, they can't afford some imports unlike MVP and SMC where they can just get any import that's fit to their team. I mean there are some players who SMC and MVP can't afford but comparing to independent teams, they are way behind that's why they can't dominate in a conference where there is an import.

I'm still hoping that balance of the roster in each team and competitiveness will rise again in PBA.

That is what we all want to see happen but in the current situation, it is far from happening. PBA is too much in favor of the team of SMC and MVP. Unless something drastic is done to control these powerful companies from farming other teams of their talents, then we are forced to just be satisfied with what PBA has to offer.

What PBA needs to do is to focus on making the league better again, there's a lot of issues that they need to address PBA should start working on that.

They're not addressing it, they only addressed it because they're being called out and that made them nervous. The answers given by the comms aren't even enticing to hear and they only think of themselves. I just hope that B League would boycott the meeting that they'll about to have with the comms.

What would boycotting the meeting do? It will just worsen the relationship between the two leagues. It is better if they can come up with something that would benefit both leagues and the players as well.

I do not know if it is still in effect, but I think college players who do not want to get drafted into PBA are not able to play in PBA at all. If they can come up with a resolution that players can join b league and can still play in PBA after their contracts expire, it will be good for the league and the players.

[bisdak40]

What PBA needs to do is to focus on making the league better again, there's a lot of issues that they need to address PBA should start working on that.

They're not addressing it, they only addressed it because they're being called out and that made them nervous. The answers given by the comms aren't even enticing to hear and they only think of themselves. I just hope that B League would boycott the meeting that they'll about to have with the comms.

What would boycotting the meeting do? It will just worsen the relationship between the two leagues. It is better if they can come up with something that would benefit both leagues and the players as well.

I do not know if it is still in effect, but I think college players who do not want to get drafted into PBA are not able to play in PBA at all. If they can come up with a resolution that players can join b league and can still play in PBA after their contracts expire, it will be good for the league and the players.

Agree, they should talk and do whatever is necessary that could be good for both the PBA and Japan B-league and to the Filipino players that will be the affected on this move. Seems to me that the PBA is so selfish when they brought out this thing to the media but they kept mum on the issue of Greg Slaughter.

I mean Greg was silently boycotted by PBA teams as no one hires his services even if he was a free agent already and they left him hanging in the limbo this whole time but commissioner Marcial never acted on that one so he was forced to bring his wares to Japan.

This whole thing is so complicated in my point of view and as an ordinary fan of the PBA and basketball i hope they could come up with a better solution that will benefit the fans who are the source of their income also.

[Mr. Magkaisa]

Despite the many supporters of Ginebra, the team seems to have a hard time winning the championship, because let's face it, the new teams that entered the PBA field are not for nothing because they are undeniably strong. the players can also be considered and the Ginebra Team is also very difficult to beat.

Can you mention those new teams that are undeniably strong? Converge is the only new franchise in the league.

It's been several seasons and conferences already that teams from MVP and SMC are always battling in the Finals.

Ginebra also made championships every season since 2015 but in different conferences.

New imports I think but no new team, even Converge are a new team but their players are old.

Ginebra is very successful because of their good import Justin Brownlee, so these coming commissioners cup, let's see if we have a new import that could beat Brownlee as definitely that will not make Ginebra a champion again.

A big challenge to many imports and many teams, but it's still possible since Ginebra will not always be a champion. Imports should play better because they are being hired to play and help the team, that's their main purpose. Converge team is new but already a composed of good players. Let's see if different teams will go for the finals this time or we might ended up with the same team over again, they should challenge the dominance of Ginebra in commissioners cap.

This time, I don't think Ginebra will win the championship again despite having Brownlee who is undeniably a good import, why? Because with a healthy Fajardo, he can still dominate inside and with the help of their import, it will be easier for him. If we have a championship odds now, I'm guessing SMB will be the top favorites to win.

-  You are right in what you said friend, Fajardo can contribute a lot to SMB especially if their teamwork is good in the middle of the game against the opponents. That's why even Ginebra will surely have a hard time with the defense shown by SMB when it's their opponent on the basketball court.

Whether we admit it or not, Ginebra can't compete with SMB, it's hard for them to beat SMB, it's also certain that we will see a very weak defense in the match between those two teams, and it can't be denied that SMB also has a lot of supporters in the PBA field. here in our country.

[mirakal]

What PBA needs to do is to focus on making the league better again, there's a lot of issues that they need to address PBA should start working on that.

They're not addressing it, they only addressed it because they're being called out and that made them nervous. The answers given by the comms aren't even enticing to hear and they only think of themselves. I just hope that B League would boycott the meeting that they'll about to have with the comms.

What would boycotting the meeting do? It will just worsen the relationship between the two leagues. It is better if they can come up with something that would benefit both leagues and the players as well.

I do not know if it is still in effect, but I think college players who do not want to get drafted into PBA are not able to play in PBA at all. If they can come up with a resolution that players can join b league and can still play in PBA after their contracts expire, it will be good for the league and the players.

Agree, they should talk and do whatever is necessary that could be good for both the PBA and Japan B-league and to the Filipino players that will be the affected on this move. Seems to me that the PBA is so selfish when they brought out this thing to the media but they kept mum on the issue of Greg Slaughter.

I mean Greg was silently boycotted by PBA teams as no one hires his services even if he was a free agent already and they left him hanging in the limbo this whole time but commissioner Marcial never acted on that one so he was forced to bring his wares to Japan.

This whole thing is so complicated in my point of view and as an ordinary fan of the PBA and basketball i hope they could come up with a better solution that will benefit the fans who are the source of their income also.

PBA has to accept the reality that they cannot compete when it comes to salary offering of overseas teams, that's the new norm now, they should be happy instead that PBA talents are recruited and given a better opportunity. IMO, they are so greedy if they will prevent players in playing overseas because it's a success of their careers.

[Ziskinberg]

IMO, they are so greedy if they will prevent players in playing overseas because it's a success of their careers.

But they cannot do it now because some PBA players are in demand abroad. They can do what they want once player sign a contract as long as it's written in the contract, however, they cannot prevent the fans of thinking that they are desperate enough to keep their players. 

[crzy]

IMO, they are so greedy if they will prevent players in playing overseas because it's a success of their careers.

But they cannot do it now because some PBA players are in demand abroad. They can do what they want once player sign a contract as long as it's written in the contract, however, they cannot prevent the fans of thinking that they are desperate enough to keep their players. 

I wonder why the players keep on communicating with the other teams while they are still on a contract? Is PBA or SBP didn't gave them the chance to showcase their skills and give them a good exposure? No hate to that player but let's all respect the contract.

SBP allows other players who didn't signed any contract or unless the other team will buy you out of that contract then it can work but if not, you have to stay on that contract.
Some Pinoy didn't know how the contract works, and they easily follow the rumors and throw the hate in social media, feel sorry for them.

[Yamifoud]

This time, I don't think Ginebra will win the championship again despite having Brownlee who is undeniably a good import, why? Because with a healthy Fajardo, he can still dominate inside and with the help of their import, it will be easier for him. If we have a championship odds now, I'm guessing SMB will be the top favorites to win.

SMB is like having 2 imports in the upcoming conference now that JuneMar Fajardo is playing like in his prime. In the last conference, he is consistent in doing a monster performance from eliminations, quarterfinals, and semi-finals up to the Finals. Only an import can stop him but if that's the case, how can teams able to stop the real import of SMB?

SMB is like a tough team to beat again. CJ Perez is also playing in his prime and Terrene Romeo might return next conference. There are also other big men in the SMB that is tough to guard like Mo Tautaa and Vic Manuel. A powerhouse team.

I agree with that, they are the powerhouse team now because Fajardo is healthy already. Mo Tautua alone can give problem to an import, so the import of the SMB is so lucky that he does not have to carry the team or defend well as there are other players that could do that.

[Japinat]

This time, I don't think Ginebra will win the championship again despite having Brownlee who is undeniably a good import, why? Because with a healthy Fajardo, he can still dominate inside and with the help of their import, it will be easier for him. If we have a championship odds now, I'm guessing SMB will be the top favorites to win.

SMB is like having 2 imports in the upcoming conference now that JuneMar Fajardo is playing like in his prime. In the last conference, he is consistent in doing a monster performance from eliminations, quarterfinals, and semi-finals up to the Finals. Only an import can stop him but if that's the case, how can teams able to stop the real import of SMB?

SMB is like a tough team to beat again. CJ Perez is also playing in his prime and Terrene Romeo might return next conference. There are also other big men in the SMB that is tough to guard like Mo Tautaa and Vic Manuel. A powerhouse team.

I agree with that, they are the powerhouse team now because Fajardo is healthy already. Mo Tautua alone can give problem to an import, so the import of the SMB is so lucky that he does not have to carry the team or defend well as there are other players that could do that.

But Brownlee can always make a difference, that's why Ginebra will always get him as their import. There are times in the past when SMB have a healthy Fajardo and yet Brownlee can still beat them. I think next to SMB, Ginebra will have a chance of winning a championship also, which makes this commissioner's cup more interesting to watch.

[gunhell16]

I agree with that, they are the powerhouse team now because Fajardo is healthy already. Mo Tautua alone can give problem to an import, so the import of the SMB is so lucky that he does not have to carry the team or defend well as there are other players that could do that.

This is probably SMB's advantage over other teams, as every SMB player is very reliable and can lead their team to a successful match.
And you are also right that SMB's import is lucky because the other PBA teams rely only on the ability of the import that their team has, they only hope for points so that their team can win and when the 4th quarter comes they are so tired the import and that is often the target to always get a foul to immediately graduate from the game, seeing the opponent is only relying on the import to win the point for the team.

And the SMB team is not like that based on my observation when I watch their game especially when their opponent is Ginebra, it's really a fierce battle.

[Fredomago]

I agree with that, they are the powerhouse team now because Fajardo is healthy already. Mo Tautua alone can give problem to an import, so the import of the SMB is so lucky that he does not have to carry the team or defend well as there are other players that could do that.

This is probably SMB's advantage over other teams, as every SMB player is very reliable and can lead their team to a successful match.
And you are also right that SMB's import is lucky because the other PBA teams rely only on the ability of the import that their team has, they only hope for points so that their team can win and when the 4th quarter comes they are so tired the import and that is often the target to always get a foul to immediately graduate from the game, seeing the opponent is only relying on the import to win the point for the team.

And the SMB team is not like that based on my observation when I watch their game especially when their opponent is Ginebra, it's really a fierce battle.

Counting in the muscleman who also have that body to give, he can also help to defend the import, if that level of intensity SMB will be in this coming season it will be tough to any team beating them, import though can change the tempo of a certain, the good example is the Gin kings they are playing differently each time Brownlee is with them.

If it's not a case of sisterhood, I see both Gin Kings and SMB in the finals. Both are equipped with full packs of talents.

But again, there're manipulations and control that team owners have in this league. We don't know who's going to be in the finals. We do have our local terms "pambato". it's the higher authorities inside that will decide.

[goaldigger]

IMO, they are so greedy if they will prevent players in playing overseas because it's a success of their careers.

But they cannot do it now because some PBA players are in demand abroad. They can do what they want once player sign a contract as long as it's written in the contract, however, they cannot prevent the fans of thinking that they are desperate enough to keep their players. 

Players want to earn more and get’s more experience abroad, it can easily be done once you are free from any contract but if you are still under the contract, the association won’t allow you to play to other teams or in abroad that is how it works since then. That player should know that the moment he signed the contract, SBP can’t be blame here since they are not preventing players here to play abroad, it’s just that they are implementing the rules and regulations especially if they are under the contract.

[jakelyson]

But Brownlee can always make a difference, that's why Ginebra will always get him as their import. There are times in the past when SMB have a healthy Fajardo and yet Brownlee can still beat them. I think next to SMB, Ginebra will have a chance of winning a championship also, which makes this commissioner's cup more interesting to watch.

I also think that way. Brownlee does make a big difference. Aside from his athleticism, he also played a long time with Ginebra. They already know each other and have good chemistry. I do not know who the import of San Miguel will be, but I guess there will be adjustments between the locals and the import. While Ginebra will not go through that adjustment. We will see how these teams will perform once the conference starts.

IMO, they are so greedy if they will prevent players in playing overseas because it's a success of their careers.

But they cannot do it now because some PBA players are in demand abroad. They can do what they want once player sign a contract as long as it's written in the contract, however, they cannot prevent the fans of thinking that they are desperate enough to keep their players. 

Players want to earn more and get’s more experience abroad, it can easily be done once you are free from any contract but if you are still under the contract, the association won’t allow you to play to other teams or in abroad that is how it works since then. That player should know that the moment he signed the contract, SBP can’t be blame here since they are not preventing players here to play abroad, it’s just that they are implementing the rules and regulations especially if they are under the contract.

Aside from Ravena, I cannot recall any player who played abroad bridging a contract. They are professionals and they know that bridging a contract will hurt them very much. Luckily for Ravena, his issues was resolved that is why he is still playing in B league. I am not just sure how the ironed that out. Maybe someone here knows.

[samcrypto]

But Brownlee can always make a difference, that's why Ginebra will always get him as their import. There are times in the past when SMB have a healthy Fajardo and yet Brownlee can still beat them. I think next to SMB, Ginebra will have a chance of winning a championship also, which makes this commissioner's cup more interesting to watch.

I also think that way. Brownlee does make a big difference. Aside from his athleticism, he also played a long time with Ginebra. They already know each other and have good chemistry. I do not know who the import of San Miguel will be, but I guess there will be adjustments between the locals and the import. While Ginebra will not go through that adjustment. We will see how these teams will perform once the conference starts.

Ginebra will still be at a good position here since they have a good chemistry with Brownlee and they already know how to play the game so this will be a big challenge to other team. SMB having a good import will make them a better team, I’m also not familiar with their imports but I’m sure the locals will adjust and that could be a big game for every team. I’m rooting for new teams to play their best and be on top, this is still possible this conference.

[blockman]

What PBA needs to do is to focus on making the league better again, there's a lot of issues that they need to address PBA should start working on that.

They're not addressing it, they only addressed it because they're being called out and that made them nervous. The answers given by the comms aren't even enticing to hear and they only think of themselves. I just hope that B League would boycott the meeting that they'll about to have with the comms.

What would boycotting the meeting do? It will just worsen the relationship between the two leagues. It is better if they can come up with something that would benefit both leagues and the players as well.

I do not know if it is still in effect, but I think college players who do not want to get drafted into PBA are not able to play in PBA at all. If they can come up with a resolution that players can join b league and can still play in PBA after their contracts expire, it will be good for the league and the players.

The B League is making the PBA as a farm team, while the PBA has got teams as a farm team and we all know about it. The boycotting will just lead the management of PBA to be softened their decisions. It doesn't look good as they're stopping these great players to have a good career overseas.
For sure with the tightening of SBP and PBA, the great college basketball player athletes won't allow themselves to get drafted into PBA and will just accept good offers from B League and other leagues like KBL, etc.

[agustina2]

But Brownlee can always make a difference, that's why Ginebra will always get him as their import. There are times in the past when SMB have a healthy Fajardo and yet Brownlee can still beat them. I think next to SMB, Ginebra will have a chance of winning a championship also, which makes this commissioner's cup more interesting to watch.

Brownlee is already past his prime. He is already showing signs of slowing down.

Compare before, he always attack the basket but if we noticed the last conference we saw him playing at Ginebra, he is more of doing perimeter and 3-point shots now. We can see him also doing several assists now.

SMB is composed of more big men now aside from the import. Ginebra with Brownlee will have a hard time if ever they will meet SMB in the Finals.

[chaser15]

I agree with that, they are the powerhouse team now because Fajardo is healthy already. Mo Tautua alone can give problem to an import, so the import of the SMB is so lucky that he does not have to carry the team or defend well as there are other players that could do that.

Fajardo is already a problem defending, then another one is their import, that was a tough challenge on every team. There's also Mo Tautaa as you mentioned who is strong in the paint too and can do dunks always as he got near the rim.

Looks like another SMB championship is waiving at them in the next conference.