PHILIPPINE Basketball Association commissioner Willie Marcial revealed on Wednesday that discussions between the Zamboanga Valientes and Terrafirma are going well.
“Hopefully, they (Valientes) could join our 50th anniversary. There are talks going on between them and what I know is, they are close to reaching an agreement,” Marcia said at halftime of the PBA Philippine Cup game between Barangay Ginebra and Northport.
While talks are ongoing, the big bosses of the Valientes are in the process of complying with the requirements needed to complete the Terrafirma franchise’s sale.
Owned by Junnie Navarro, the Zamboanga Valientes have been actively participating in various local and international cage tournaments in recent years. It competed in the annual Dubai International Basketball Championships last year, winning The Asian Tournament grand finals behind former NBA star Demarcus Cousins.
“Whatever requirements are needed for the team, that’s what we asked from them (Valientes),” Marcial said in Filipino. “He just said, if possible, he be given time to comply since he’s running for public office.”
Navarro is currently seeking for a seat in city council of Zamboanga’s second district.
Other than the Valientes, Universal Canning Inc., makers of Family’s Brand Sardines and Master Sardines, also submitted its letter of intent (LOI) to join the PBA.
Just recently, Starhorse Shipping Line’s plan to purchase the Dyip franchise lock, stock and barrel failed to materialize after failing to comply with the financial requirements set by the pro league.