Recreational activities, virtual fans await players in PBA Bubble; social messages in jerseys also possible

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) will allow certain recreational activities inside its planned "bubble" in Clark, Pampanga.

In a virtual press conference on Thursday, league commissioner Willie Marcial said golf, water sports, billiards, and table tennis are possible in the PBA Bubble. Night screening of shows will also be conducted.

"That's about wellness," PBA Board Chair Ricky Vargas said. "The reason we chose Clark is the facility that it can cover. More than that, in Clark itself, we can arrange for them to go around the city as part of the Bubble."

Virtual fans will also be present in the games, just like in the NBA.

"May LED, makikita ang fans, maririnig ng players ang sigaw ng fans," said Marcial.

Asked if messages on social issues can also be put in the players' jersey, Marcial said, "Sa 'kin ok naman basta walang kabastusan. Puwede kung papayagan ng mga teams."

The PBA hopes to welcome teams in the bubble on September 26, once it gets the approval from the IATF. The league expects the season to start by October 9. 

Games will be held in the Angeles University Foundation gym while the players will stay in Quest Hotel.

Strict health protocols will be implemented inside the campus, with harsh penalties for violators. —MGP, GMA News