A TOTAL of five interested parties already inquired before the PBA regarding the buyout of the multi-titled Alaska franchise.
Three of the individuals directly communicated with commissioner Willie Marcial, while the other two talked with Alaska team governor Dickie Bachmann.
“May tatlo nang may gusto. May tatlo nang nagtatanong sa prangkisa (ng Alaska),” said the commissioner.
“Tapos may dalawa pang nagtanong din kay Gov. Dickie.”
On Wednesday, Alaska team owner Wilfred Uytengsu made the stunning announcement about the franchise’s decision to finally leave the league after a decorated 35-year stint.
During the time he made the pronouncement, Uytengsu said there was still no possible buyer to the team.
But interest in the franchise that won a total of 14 championships, later on snowballed once news came out Alaska is playing its final season in the league this year.
A buyout of the franchise meant acquiring the entire team lock, stock, and barrel, or in the event there would be no buyer, the players will be put under a dispersal draft.
Marcial said Alaska management will have until April to find a possible buyer. If not, the league itself will take over and try to sell the franchise to interested group or parties.
“Pero kung meron mang interesado, marami pa ring gagawin yun. Titignan natin yung financial capability, yung background ng kumpanya, at iba pa,” the commissioner added.
“Tapos ibibigay natin yun sa (PBA) Board. Kailangan ng two-third votes para maaprubahan sila.”
Alaska began its own version of ‘The Last Dance’ on Wednesday when the Aces turned back Rain or Shine, 80-74, to climb for a share of third place with Phoenix in the standings, and on track of gaining a twice-to-beat edge in the playoffs. (RG)
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