Metro Manila, Philippines — The Meralco Bolts and the Magnolia Hotshots will open the PBA’s 49th season on Aug. 18.
The reigning Philippine Cup champions Bolts take on the Hotshots in the lone match on opening day of the Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
The best players from last season will be recognized in the Leo Awards set for 4 p.m. followed by the opening ceremonies at 5 p.m.
Meralco will be reinforced by Allen Durham who is making a comeback after four years.
Magnolia, meanwhile, will be anchored by former NBA cager Glenn Robinson III.
PBA games will be held six days a week for the elimination round which will run until Sept. 23 to give way to the Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 qualifiers in November.
The much-talked about four-point line, a new feature in the upcoming season, is seen by the league to bring more fans back to the venues.
Mark your calendars! Here’s your #PBASeason49 Governors’ Cup ELIMS Schedule#PBAAngatAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/Wlg2CgszLX
— PBA (@pbaconnect) August 14, 2024
