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PBA Adopts More FIBA Rules To Better Prepare Gilas Players
Photo credit: PBA
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is set to gradually adopt more FIBA rules beginning with the upcoming Governors’ Cup, a move aimed at better preparing players for international competition and strengthening its support for Gilas Pilipinas.
PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial announced the changes during the league’s coaches’ meeting, saying the adjustments will make local games more aligned with the officiating standards used in FIBA tournaments.
Among the biggest changes will be the way games are officiated, with referees expected to call fouls and game situations more similarly to international competitions. The league will also introduce the possession arrow system instead of regular jump balls.
According to Gilas Pilipinas program director and team manager Alfrancis Chua, the transition is expected to help national team players adapt more quickly whenever they compete overseas, where officiating often differs from what they experience in the PBA.
Despite the updates, several league rules will remain unchanged, including the six personal foul limit, four 12-minute quarters, the current timeout structure, and the four-point line.
Marcial reiterated that the PBA remains committed to supporting the Gilas Pilipinas program, continuing a long-standing partnership with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas in helping the national team compete on the international stage.
PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial announced the changes during the league’s coaches’ meeting, saying the adjustments will make local games more aligned with the officiating standards used in FIBA tournaments.
Among the biggest changes will be the way games are officiated, with referees expected to call fouls and game situations more similarly to international competitions. The league will also introduce the possession arrow system instead of regular jump balls.
According to Gilas Pilipinas program director and team manager Alfrancis Chua, the transition is expected to help national team players adapt more quickly whenever they compete overseas, where officiating often differs from what they experience in the PBA.
Despite the updates, several league rules will remain unchanged, including the six personal foul limit, four 12-minute quarters, the current timeout structure, and the four-point line.
Marcial reiterated that the PBA remains committed to supporting the Gilas Pilipinas program, continuing a long-standing partnership with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas in helping the national team compete on the international stage.
Jun 26, 2026
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