PBA Playoffs: Let us support Phoenix because they are fighting for the FUTURE of the league

(c) PBA Media Bureau

I will be honest enough to say that I did not expect Phoenix Fuel Masters to be a serious threat to the San Miguel Beermen. 

As I watched them fight for every rebound. Their centers and wings were so fast in getting into positions of getting loose balls. Even though they were outsized and out-height, Phoenix was there. 

They played one of the most effortful defensive performances that I saw this conference. The Fuel Masters were flying all over the court, running to defend every three-point attempts. 

Phoenix also managed to get a lot of good shots because of their hard screens, chemistry, great vision and amazing passing.

And then something struck me. I realized that it was not long ago that Barako Bull was handling the franchise that Phoenix currently owns. 

Remember that franchise? They became the epitome of a farm team.

And now they were replaced by a team who is representing something much bigger in the semifinals than the name of the company that is written their uniforms.

Phoenix is fighting for parity. 

An independent young franchise who actually managed to build up a team that reached the semifinals of the premier conference of the league.

It means something more than just a semifinals appearance.

So, if your favorite team is already out of the running, how about showing support to Phoenix?

If they succeed to at least give San Miguel a good fight, around six games at least, it will invigorate the idea that parity may still be achieved. 

Why? 

Because Phoenix did it. Phoenix is still a young franchise with a lot of paths of improving their team. Their core is young and their picks are intact. 

What I am trying to say is simple, Phoenix is showing us that an independent franchise can still build up a good team. There is still hope for a better future for the league.

Which means Blackwater, Columbian and North Port (technically all of them are young independent teams) can also do it.

They just need to follow the lead of Phoenix. Draft core pieces, trade for the right veterans, get a very good coach and strengthen the chemistry.

PBA will remain to be a league run by the powerhouse franchises but if all the independent teams finally get their acts together, you can just imagine how much better the competition will be. How much sweeter to cheer for a team. And how much better the league that is still the heart and soul of Philippine basketball.