Newcomer Converge kicks off its maiden foray in the PBA against Rain or Shine as part of a rare opening day doubleheader on Sunday, June 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The FiberXers, who completed the purchase of the fabled Alaska franchise in late-March, face the Elasto Painters at 4:30 p.m. as part of a busy start to the league’s 47th season.
TNT opens the defense of its Philippine Cup title against Magnolia Chicken Timplados in the second game at 6:30 p.m.
A new team usually plays in the season-opener, with the last being in 2014 when expansion clubs Kia and Blackwater met at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
Converge will enter the big league with a combination of Alaska holdovers and rookies taken in the PBA Draft last May 15.
Jeron Teng is among the Alaska remnants retained by the FiberXers while signing first round picks Jeo Ambohot and Justin Arana and the recently-acquired Kurt Lojera to rookie deals.
The PBA will hold five playdates per week during the eliminations that will run until July 22.
The Big Dome, Mall of Asia Arena and Ynares Center in Antipolo City will serve as regular venues.