Abner Venus, sports coordinator and promoter of the event, told Variety that the new league will be different from the old one mainly because of its fundraising aspect.
Venus mentioned they will pursue the Budweiser Basketball League in line with next year’s Oceania Basketball Tournament and in order for them to “tune-up” the junior national team.
He pointed out the league will limit 10 teams only to compete, however the league may launch its games with eight teams in the roster.
He also said that this year’s league will have no cash prizes at stake because of its fundraising thrust.
However, winners will be given trophies.
Proceeds that will be gathered from the league will be used for the promotion and development of a national basketball team that will represent CNMI in the 2009 Oceania Tournament, which will be held on Saipan.
Venus and his group are currently sending out solicitation letters to companies to search for sponsorships
A new entrance fee of $500 for interested teams will be enforced, unlike before where they have to shell out $800 in order for them to join.
The reason for the reduction of entry fee is to attract teams to join in the league in light of the lukewarm economy on island.
A maximum of 12 players in each team will be allowed in its roster, Venus said, saying teams this time need to produce their own uniforms unlike in previous events where Budweiser shoulders the manufacture of jerseys of cagers.
Each player will also have to pay $5 membership fee.
Team registration will be on a first come, first served basis, Venus emphasized.
He mentioned that they hope the pacific Telecommunications Inc. would join the league given its recent victory in the Inter-government/Business Basketball League.
“This will be an open league,” Venus said. “There is no age limit.”
He said Rock Steady, the defending champion in the former Budweiser Cup, has already confirmed its interest to join the league this season.
Past participants of the basketball event include Ol’ Aces, Junior Nationals, Sonics, Suns, and other teams.
For more details about the upcoming league, Venus can be reached at 234-5911, or Elias M. Rangamar at 664-2502.
