PBA Controversy: Stronghorse should tank, contend or build slowly?

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Stronghorse’s PBA Entry: Should They Tank, Contend, or Build Slowly?

The much-anticipated entry of Strong Group into the PBA is nearing reality as the franchise finalizes its acquisition of the Terrafirma Dyip. This move promises to shake up the league, but the biggest question now is: What direction should they take?

If they want to become a powerhouse, they have three clear paths:

  1. Go all-in on tanking by trading veterans for future picks.
  2. Go all-in on contending by trading future picks for star players.
  3. Build slowly by carefully developing their roster and culture.

Which path is the best?

Option 1: Go All-In on Tanking

If Stronghorse wants to build a dynasty from the ground up, they could fully embrace tanking.

  • Trade veterans like Kemark Cariño, Stanley Pringle, Terrence Romeo, and Christian Standhardinger for draft picks.
  • Stockpile young talent and secure multiple first-round picks for the next few drafts.
  • Follow the San Antonio Spurs model, where they develop young players instead of rushing to compete.

🚨 The Risk?

  • Tanking might alienate fans, as people expect them to be more competitive than Terrafirma.
  • The team might struggle to attract top free agents, as losing teams rarely appeal to star players.
  • No guarantees that draft picks will turn into stars.

✅ The Reward?

  • If they draft well, they could build a championship core in a few years.
  • They control their own destiny without relying on big trades.

Option 2: Go All-In on Contending

If Stronghorse wants to make an immediate splash, they can trade their future first-round picks for established stars.

  • Target big names who are available for the right price.
  • Build a win-now team by surrounding their core with top-tier talent.
  • Capitalize on the strong financial backing of their ownership group.

🚨 The Risk?

  • Sacrificing the future by trading first-round picks could backfire if they don’t win a championship.
  • If things go wrong, they could end up like Blackwater—stuck in mediocrity with no draft picks to rebuild.

✅ The Reward?

  • Immediate competitiveness and instant relevance in the PBA.
  • They could attract big-name free agents who want to win now.

Option 3: Build Slowly – The Best Path for Strong Group

The most logical approach for Strong Group is to build their team gradually.

  • They can keep their key veterans while still developing young players.
  • Make smart trades, but avoid gutting their future assets.
  • Prioritize stability and team culture—something Terrafirma never had.

🚨 The Risk?

  • Might take longer to reach contender status.
  • No guarantee that they will attract a superstar-level player in free agency.

✅ The Reward?

  • A balanced approach that keeps them competitive while still planning for the future.
  • They can establish a winning culture that respects the integrity of the franchise they’re taking over.
  • It allows them to properly evaluate their assets and make the right moves at the right time.


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