THE PBA will have a new format for its All-Star Game in Passi, Iloilo on March 12.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial on Sunday announced that instead of the traditional North versus South format, the top 24 players in a fan vote will be divided into two teams in a draft involving the two leading vote-getters.
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The selection format is similar to that of other leagues specifically the NBA.
“Mamimili ang fans ng 24 players. Sa top 24, ‘yung dalawa, gagawin nating captain ball. Tapos mamimili sila sa 22 kung sino ang pipiliin nila,” said PBA commissioner Willie Marcial.
Marcial said the coaches of the teams will also be selected through a fan voting.
Marcial said the same format will also be followed in the Rookies, Sophomores, and Juniors match, provided there will be at least two rookies per team. Two to three celebrities per team are also being eyed.
Skills challenge competitions such as the Slam Dunk Contest, Three-point Shootout, and Obstacle Challenge will also be held during the All-Star Weekend.
Fans can vote through the PBA website and in voting places to be set up in game venues from January 25 until February 15.
The PBA All-Star Game was last held in 2019 in Calasiao, Pangasinan with the North beating South, 185-170.
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