PBA extends ‘no practice policy’ until further notice

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial on Monday has extended the teams’ break from practices in light of the country’s current situation due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Marcial last March 13 barred the teams from practicing for two weeks or until March 27 as a precautionary measure against the virus but it has now decided to extend such until further notice.

A memorandum addressed to all teams was issued Monday, four days before the supposed end of the break.

“In light of the country’s current situation, the Office of the Commissioner is EXTENDING all its member teams’ two-week break from practices, scrimmages and other related activities which was supposed to end March 27 – Friday, until further notice,” Marcial said.

Last March 11 — just three days after the curtains for Season 45 was raised — the league has decided to suspend its games indefinitely due to the health crisis that has affected the world.

The suspension covers the 2020 Philippine Cup as well as the league’s other activities, including the D-League Aspirants’ Cup that opened just last March 2 and the PBA 3X3 inaugurals.

In the memo, Marcial also asked all PBA members to stay at home and follow the guidelines set by the government.

“Declaration no. 929 places the whole country under state of calamity and the nation’s capital under ‘enhanced quarantine’. We ask your full cooperation and compliance and encourage everyone to stay fit and healthy in the confines and safety of their homes,” he said.

“Please continue to follow the guidelines set by our government health workers and standby for updates.”