Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) – Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is the newest team in the Philippine Basketball Association after the Dennis Anthony Uy-led tech firm bought the franchise of the Alaska Aces.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial announced the development during a press conference on Wednesday.
“We’re truly honored and excited to be part of the PBA associated with such a beloved team. Converge hopes to continue the legacy of pride, passion, competitiveness, discipline, and sportsmanship that the franchise has been known for,” Uy said in a statement, highlighting the legacy that Alaska left in local professional basketball.
Marcial said all the 11 directors of the PBA Board approved the sale of Alaska to Converge.
Former PBA commissioner Chito Salud was introduced as team governor of the Converge squad.
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“Converge will be a strong and active member of the PBA. With full management support and continuous recalibration, we will be competing at a high level and will be bringing topnotch basketball to Filipino sports fans,” Salud assured during the press conference.
Salud said that Converge officials will review the performance of the previous Alaska coaches and players before making any personnel moves for their debut in the league’s 47th season.
Converge bought Alaska after the Wilfred Uytengsu-owned franchise announced last February that it is leaving the PBA after 35 seasons wherein the Aces won a total of 14 championships including a rare grand slam in 1996.
Salud added that the Converge management will stage a separate press conference on April 5 to introduce the team, including their monicker.
