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| The Zamboanga Valientes could make it to the PBA in time for the Season 50 opening, as commissioner Willie Marcial projects. Zamboanga Valientes (file photo) |
PASIG--PBA commissioner Willie Marcial revealed on Wednesday night that the Zamboanga Valientes and Family's Brand Sardines have already sent formal feelers to join the league.
Speaking to reporters during halftime of the NorthPort-Ginebra game at the PhilSports Arena, Marcial confirmed that both groups were the two corporate groups that expressed their written intent to join the PBA amid the fallout of Terrafirma's negotiations with Starhorse for a franchise sale.
However, Marcial clarified that the submission of letters of intent was not in line with what happened between the Dyip and Starhorse.
"Basta [nag-submit sila ng] letter of intent. Gusto nilang sumali," Marcial said, adding that he is in talks with Family's Brand regarding how they want to enter the PBA.
The Valientes publicly announced on Monday that they have reached a verbal agreement with Terrafirma for a franchise sale.
According to Marcial, Junnie Navarro, the Valientes' team owner, will submit the necessary documents after the elections since he is busy with his campaign as he runs for councilor in Zamboanga City.
However, Marcial also said that Navarro had already sent initial feelers about joining the league "earlier this year."
Marcial later said that he is hoping that the Valientes' takeover of the Dyip would be complete in time for the start of the next PBA season on Oct. 5.
"Yung Zamboanga Valientes, hinahabol natin na sana makasali sa 50th season natin," he further said.
He also expressed optimism that the Terrafirma franchise sale would finally be complete, considering Navarro's desire to put up a PBA team.
"Sa palagay ko, magpu-push through na ito. Mas agresibo si Junnie sa deal na ito," Marcial continued, later confirming that Starhorse is already "out of the picture" in the chase for the Dyip franchise.
The Valientes, who previously joined the PBA 3x3's inaugural season, will need eight votes of approval from the league's board of governors for them to be able to buy the Dyip lock, stock, and barrel.
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