LAS VEGAS - It's going to be a trip down memory lane as the PBA observes its 50th year of existence when the new season opens up on October 5 at the Smart Araneta Colisuem.
The league will try to gather all players, officials, and personnel who in one way or another, became part of the PBA's success in the last five decades to kick off a two-day grand celebration that culminates in the one game opener at the Big Dome.
"Imbitahan natin na makapunta ang lahat ng nakatulong na makarating sa 50th season ang PBA," said Commissioner Willie Marcial during the second day of the Board's annual planning session at the MGM Grand here.
"Paki-sabi sa lahat ng mga players at coaches na na-involve sa PBA na pumunta."
Marcial even disclosed that boxing great and MPBL owner Manny Pacquiao and Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes were likewise given out their own invitations to attend the event.
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Pacquiao once acted a head coach and player for KIA, while Duremdes reigned as MVP in 1998.
A weekend of activity is in store to kick off the anniversary festivity.
On Saturday (Oct. 4), a fans day will be held at the green gate of the Araneta Coliseum featuring the different fans club interacting with some players in a greet and meet where select bands are set to perform.
The PBA merchandise is likewise set for launching that same day.
In the evening, everybody who participated in the building of the league will be honored in a huge fellowship gathering the PBA's past and present at the Meralco theater to be capped by a concert at the 1,000-seater venue.
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The following day, the annual Leo Awards will be held in the afternoon at the Novotel Manila, where the Season MVP and other individual awardees are set to be feted.
Shortly after, a mini-concert will be staged and possibly, fireworks display will be made outside of the Big Dome.
The Sunday night is going to be capped by the traditional season-opening program, and the holding of the first game of the 2025-26 playing calendar.(RG)
