PBA indefinitely cancels games due to COVID-19 threat

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has indefinitely canceled its ongoing Philippine Cup games, PBA D-League Aspirants' Cup games, and PBA 3x3 tournament inaugurals due to the threat of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

This decision was made during a special board meeting and is effective March 11, prioritizing the health and safety of players, fans, personnel, and staff.

The league's 45th season had just opened on Sunday, March 8, after being postponed by a week.

The cancellation follows a rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Philippines and President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of a state of public health emergency in the country.

Commissioner Willie Marcial stated that the PBA Board of Governors voted unanimously to suspend the games.

The PBA emphasized that it is prioritizing safety over potential financial losses and will assess the situation daily based on DOH and WHO guidelines.

The league hopes the outbreak will be contained and can resume games in approximately three weeks.

In related developments, FIBA announced the suspension of all basketball competitions starting March 13, and the postponement of the FIBA 3x3 Olympic Qualification Tournament, the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers match between Gilas Pilipinas and Thailand, the opening of the 2020 President's Cup, and the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Manila Masters.