Pilipinas Super League taps Marc Pingris as commissioner
After a glorious 16-year career in the PBA, Marc Pingris is bringing his act to the Pilipinas Super League.
The 40-year old Pingris, who announced his retirement from professional basketball early last year, has been appointed as commissioner of the soon-to-be-launched regional cage league.
“I’m very, very thankful for this opportunity at sa tiwalang binigay sa akin ng PSL,” said Pingris during an interview with Tiebreaker Times.
“Asahan nila na gagawin namin ang lahat para sa liga na ‘to at para mapasaya ang mga fans at mga players,” he added.
PSL is supported by Dumper Party List, Cocolife, Malyab, Tri Energy Corporation, Phenom Sportswear, Wilson, and Corban.
Rocky Chan, who was once the Chief Operating Officer of another regional league, is the president while sports personality Chino Trinidad will serve as consultant.
“We are so happy to have the one and only Pinoy Sakuragi sa Liga ng Pinoy,” said Chan through a statement released by the league.
“We have the same vision and goals with Marc that is why it felt like a match made in heaven. Coming from humble beginnings, Marc also serves as an inspiration and role model to our players. We never had a hard time convincing him to be the commissioner and ambassador of our league and we are happy to have him on board,” he added.
Pingris’ manager, Ed Ponceja, believes that the league is in good hands with ‘Pinoy Sakuragi’ leading the way.
“This opportunity for Marc Pingris to work as Commissioner of Pilipinas Super League will be another feather in the cap for Marc. I’m sure the players in PSL will embrace him with high respect,” said Ponceja.
“I believe Commissioner Pingris can lead the way for PSL to get things in order. Disciple and hard work in basketball have been his trademark.”
And the 9-time PBA champion couldn’t wait to get the ball bouncing.
“Excited na medyo kinakabahan. But masaya ‘to dahil madami kami plano about sa liga na to. Abangan niyo yan,” said Pingris.
The new league is looking to start its first tournament on March 11.