Converge takes over Alaska's PBA franchise

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is set to welcome a new company as internet provider Converge ICT Solutions bought out the Alaska franchise following the latter's exit from the league.

In a press conference Wednesday, league commissioner Willie Marcial made the announcement, saying the Dennis Anthony Uy-owned company is now the owner of the franchise after getting a unanimous 11-0 vote from the board of governors.

Former PBA commissioner Chito Salud has been tapped to lead the team as its governor.

"Converge is extremely proud to be associated with the PBA—a pillar and institution in Philippine sports with a long and storied history," Uy said in a statement read by Salud.

"We are excited to commence our journey in building a track record and legacy of competitiveness, innovation, character, discipline, and sportsmanship worthy of support and respect of PBA fans."

Salud added that a separate press conference will be held on April 5 to formally introduce the team and its moniker ahead of its campaign in Season 47.

Alaska last month made a shocking announcement that it is bidding the league goodbye after 35 years, a span that saw the Aces bag 14 championships highlighted by a rare grand slam in 1996.

Alaska ended its campaign last March 19 when it bowed to NLEX in their quarterfinal series of the ongoing 2021 PBA Governors' Cup.

Marcial earlier said that Alaska management HAD until the end of the season to find a buyer and in case that it can't find one, the PBA will take over the franchise. —NB/MGP, GMA News