With the University of Athletic Association of the Philippines moving to Cignal/TV5, the National Collegiate Athletic Association has to make a decision — be one with the crowd or blaze a trail.
According to multiple sources closely monitoring the situation, the Grand Old League is seriously considering a partnership with GMA 7.
“Pinag-iisipan talaga ng liga na pumunta sa GMA,” said a league insider who requested anonimity.
“Sa Siyete puwede silang maging pioneer ng pagbabalik ng sports dun, pero kung sa Singko naman, alam nating may gamit na sila.”
In a column by Philippine Star’s Bill Velasco, he broke down GMA’s plans for its return to sports.
The last time GMA had sporting programs in its station was back in 2016. Back then, it had both the V-League and a boxing program in its portfolio. Both shows aired in its UHF channel GMA News TV but on delayed telecasts.
With the demise of ABS-CBN S+A, GMA is looking to beef up its sports content with the NCAA as its crown jewel.
The NCAA is no stranger to TV5, though, as it was its TV partner from Seasons 88-90.
The only events aired by the previous partner ABS-CBN were Seniors Basketball and select Women’s Volleyball games.
The league insider added that the NCAA will make its decision this week after a final round of pitches from GMA and TV5.
Season 96 of the NCAA looks to commence in the first quarter of 2021.
