PBA, B.League joining forces?

The Japan B.League is teasing a possible collaboration with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) as it celebrates its 10th anniversary next year.

B.League executive officer-international business Nao Okamoto said during a press conference that they are in communication with PBA commissioner Willie Marcial on what potential projects both leagues can execute. 

“Is there a chance (for an All-Star       Game)? Yes,” Okamoto said during a B.League event at Gateway 2 in Quezon City on Thursday. 

“We have been communicating with Mr. Willie Marcial. We have also been talking with the SBP (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas).” 

All the stars are aligning for this landmark tieup.

For starters, the 2025-2026 PBA season would be its 50th, the oldest professional basketball league in Asia. 

Not only will it be the in the 10th anniversary of the B.League but it would also be the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan.

Marcial said that the PBA could play some exhibition games against some B.League teams but the details remain behind closed doors.

“We have a plan but the B.League doesn’t want to reveal it yet. Maybe we could have exhibition games,” Marcial said. 

“It’s good for them to see the brand of Philippine basketball and we can learn different styles of play.”