PBA opens first import-reinforced conference in almost two years

The curtains for the Philippine Basketball Association's (PBA) import-laced conference will finally open after almost two years of absence due to the pandemic.

The 2021 Governors' Cup officially unfurls on Wednesday, December 8, at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City with the NorthPort Batang Pier taking on the Alaska Aces at 3 p.m. followed by a clash between the rejigged San Miguel Beermen and the NLEX Road Warriors at 6 p.m.

NorthPort stirred the headlines the past weeks after being involved in controversial trades. After trading Sean Anthony, Sean Manganti, and future picks to Phoenix Super LPG in exchange for Vic Manuel, the Fuel Masters then sent the seasoned forward to San Miguel.

In return, they acquired the rights to grizzled forward Arwind Santos.

It also traded away Sidney Onwubere to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in exchange for Art dela Cruz.

Meanwhile, SMB pulled off another stunning deal when it parted ways with veteran guard Alex Cabagnot, whom the squad sent to Terrafirma for Simon Enciso. 

The league on Tuesday also released the official team lineups ahead of the opener.

—JMB, GMA News