CHICAGO - Citing "unforeseen circumstances," newcomer Tarlac United Force will no longer take part in the 2024 MPBL Season, the expansion team announced in an official statement on Tuesday night.
The MPBL released a statement on Tuesday, saying Tarlac United Force "will no longer be a part of the MPBL's Sixth Season after its failure to fulfill its financial obligations as a new franchise despite several grace periods."
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According to sources, the issue arose from the team's failure to remit to league officials the franchise fee required from expansion teams.
Tarlac's unceremonious exit left the MPBL Sixth Season with 29 teams.
Although saddened by unexpected development, United Force team owner Nicanor "Nino" Reyes IV sees this only as a bend in the road and not the end of Tarlac's pursuit of joining the MPBL.
"We remain fully supportive of the MPBL and its founder and chairman, Senator Manny Pacquiao," Reyes said in a statement.
After conducting open try-outs and signing notable free agents that include former PBA players, the United Force was set to play this coming Thursday when the negotiations between the team and the league broke down.
No ill feelings
But TUF harbors no ill feelings and respects the decision of the MPBL.
"We look forward to participating in future seasons and we wish to thank the MPBL and its fans for the enthusiasm and excitement they have brought to the game," Reyes added.
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