THE East Asia Super League (EASL) decided to defer the holding of a home-and-way format for its Season 1 competition owing to the ongoing COVID-19 related issues throughout the region.
Instead, a new format is being discussed with each league in hopes that their respective tournaments will be run uninterrupted by precarious travel situations.
EASL officials are currently discussing a 'Champions Week' tournament in Manila by early 2023, with details to be announced soon and shared with basketball fans around the region.
"Our mission remains to create the premier basketball league and entertainment experience in Asia, elevating the sport in the region. Controlling variables and operating our season in the most responsible manner reduces uncertainty for all our stakeholders as international travel throughout the region rebounds incrementally," said EASL CEO Matt Beyer.
EASL will shift to its originally anticipated home-and-away format by Fall of 2023.
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The home-and-away meet was supposed to start on Oct. 12 with a game in South Korea between Philippine Cup champion San Miguel and Anyang KGC, while TNT takes on on Bay Area Dragons in Manila.
The Beermen are pooled with Anyang KGC, Taipeh Fubon Braves, and Ryukyu Golden Kings in Group A, while the Tropang Giga are in Group B along with the Dragons, Seoul SK Knights and Utsunomiya Brex.
Nonetheless, the EASL remains on track that by 2025 the league will become one of the world's top three professional basketball leagues in terms of fan base and commercial revenue. (RG)
