Ginebra starts All-Filipino title defense in jam-packed PBA weekend

After seven months of inactivity, the PBA is once again back for Season 46 with a closed-circuit format at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig starting on Friday, July 16.

Capping off this jam-packed opening weekend is the start of reigning Philippine Cup champion Barangay Ginebra’s title defense on Sunday, July 18 at 4:35 pm against the NLEX Road Warriors still featuring the embattled Kiefer Ravena.

Prior to that game at 2 pm, the former five-time defending All-Filipino titlists San Miguel Beermen will start their revenge tour against rookie Alvin Pasaol and the Meralco Bolts.

Meanwhile, the Alaska Aces and the Blackwater Elite will officially start the season schedule after a simple opening ceremony on Friday, 12:30 pm. This will be followed by NLEX starting its season off at 3 pm against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

Finally for the opening day, the new-look NorthPort Batang Pier led by former Ginebra star Greg Slaughter, Season 46 second overall pick Jamie Malonzo, and a returning Robert Bolick will take on the Bolts at 6 pm.

Although Saturday, July 17, will only have a double-header, it will be a heated start to the weekend with rookie Mikey Williams and the Bobby Parks-less TNT Tropang Giga facing first overall pick Joshua Munzon and the Terrafirma Dyip at 2 pm.

Lastly, at 4:35 pm, the Magnolia Hotshots will parade their new acquisition Calvin Abueva against no less than his former team, the Phoenix Fuel Masters bannered by Matthew Wright and Abueva’s replacement, his old pal Vic Manuel.

(LOOK: 2021 PBA Philippine Cup team lineups)

Teams will be on a home-venue-home closed-circuit setup with a massive P75,000 fine and 10-day suspension looming for format violators.

– Rappler.com