PBA BREAKING NEWS! Terrafirma's Sale to Starhorse: A Done Deal? Not Yet.

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Terrafirma’s tenure in the PBA may be coming to an end, with reports confirming that the team is set to be sold to Starhorse Shipping Lines Inc. However, while fans may be eager to welcome a new and hopefully more competitive franchise, it’s too early to celebrate just yet.

The Sale Is Not Yet Official

The owners of Terrafirma and Starhorse have agreed to the sale, reportedly valued at around ₱100 million. However, before the deal can be finalized, it must go through PBA Board approval. The transaction requires a two-thirds vote from the Board, meaning that the league’s conglomerate-owned teams can still block the sale if they choose to do so.

This process is not just a formality. The PBA Board has previously played a role in shaping team ownership changes. In 2022, the sale of Alaska to Converge was approved smoothly, but that does not guarantee the same outcome for Terrafirma.

Why the Conglomerates Could Block It

The PBA’s biggest stakeholders—San Miguel Corporation (SMC), MVP Group, and Alaska/Converge—hold significant influence over Board decisions. There are a few reasons why they might be hesitant to approve the sale:

  1. Team Ownership Politics – Some Board members may prefer an established business group over a new independent owner.
  2. Competitive Balance Concerns – Terrafirma has long been seen as a feeder team to SMC squads. If Starhorse takes over and builds a more competitive roster, it could disrupt the balance of power in the league.
  3. Precedent for Future Sales – If Terrafirma is allowed to sell its franchise, it could open the door for other struggling teams (like Blackwater) to follow suit, changing the PBA’s team landscape.

If the conglomerates feel the sale does not align with their interests, they could vote against it, effectively keeping Terrafirma in limbo.

Hope for Change, But Stay Cautious

For fans frustrated with Terrafirma’s lack of competitiveness, a new ownership group is a welcome sight. In 11 years, the franchise has made the playoffs only twice, and its reputation for trading away top draft picks has drawn widespread criticism.

However, until the Board officially approves the sale, nothing is final. If the conglomerates block the deal, Terrafirma could remain in the league under its current ownership, continuing the same cycle of mediocrity.

Let’s hope that the PBA allows Starhorse to take over and bring fresh energy to a league that desperately needs more parity and competition.

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