PBA Rumors: Northport is on sale?

Is NorthPort Really for Sale? Evaluating the Batang Pier’s True Worth

It is mind-boggling that two rumored farm teams of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) are both reportedly on sale. First, Terrafirma is set to be sold for a little over P100 million to Star Horse, and now, rumors from Snow Badua suggest that NorthPort could also be on the market.

If this is true, is SMC cutting down on its spending in sports? That remains to be seen, but the idea of two teams closely linked to SMC possibly exiting the league raises more questions than answers. However, the more immediate discussion should focus on how much NorthPort is actually worth—and whether it should command a higher price than Terrafirma.

How Much Is NorthPort Really Worth?

With Terrafirma reportedly selling for a little over P100 million, many would assume NorthPort should fetch a higher valuation. The unfortunate reality, though, is that NorthPort’s history does not do them any favors.

NorthPort's lineage traces back to the Coca-Cola Tigers and the Powerade franchise, with their last major highlight being Powerade’s Cinderella run to the 2012 Philippine Cup Finals, led by Gary David. However, that magical run is now a distant memory, erased by years of sustained mediocrity and questionable trade decisions that have fueled their farm team reputation.

Still, NorthPort should be valued higher than Terrafirma, primarily because of its current roster and marketability.

A Promising Core That Adds Value

Unlike Terrafirma, which has struggled to assemble a respectable core, NorthPort has a promising young group of players that could make them more valuable in the long run. Their current key players include:

• Arvin Tolentino – A proven scorer with star potential.

• Joshua Munzon – A talented wing player who, if properly developed, can be an impact player.

• Will Navarro – A versatile forward who can defend multiple positions.

• Cade Flores – A young, high-energy big man with upside.

• Jio Jalalon – A steady and experienced playmaker who can run an offense efficiently.

This core is significantly better than what Terrafirma had when it was put up for sale, and that alone should justify a higher valuation.

The Best Price for NorthPort

Considering the factors above, NorthPort should be worth more than P150 million—at least 50% higher than Terrafirma’s sale price.

However, its farm team reputation and lack of a strong fanbase hurt its valuation. If NorthPort had built a more competitive, independent franchise over the years, it could have been valued much higher.

At this point, if an actual sale is happening, the best price would be somewhere between P150 million and P175 million. That amount would reflect its better roster, its Metro Manila marketability, and its greater potential compared to Terrafirma.

Final Thoughts

If NorthPort is indeed on the market, this could mark a shift in SMC’s approach to its PBA involvement. Whether that means consolidating resources, redirecting funds, or simply stepping away from weaker investments remains to be seen.

But for now, the big question is: Will a serious buyer step up to take over NorthPort at a price that truly reflects its potential? Or will it suffer the same fate as Terrafirma, undervalued and largely forgotten?