When Does the PBA Season Start and Key Matchups to Watch

As a longtime basketball analyst who has followed the PBA for over a decade, I always get that familiar thrill when the new season approaches. There’s something special about the energy in the Philippines during this time—the buzz in cafes, the debates on social media, and the palpable excitement as teams finalize their rosters. This year, the PBA season is set to tip off on November 5, 2023, with the Commissioner’s Cup leading the charge. That date is circled in red on my calendar, not just because it marks the return of elite basketball, but because of the compelling storylines waiting to unfold. I’ve noticed that the league’s scheduling often aligns with international windows, which adds another layer of intrigue, especially given the recent performances of Gilas Pilipinas on the global stage.

Speaking of Gilas, I can’t help but reflect on a recent quote from a New Zealand player after their match against our national team. He mentioned, "It just seems to be that's the way the game has been going for us lately," referring to their ability to keep Gilas locked out of the win column at 0-2. That statement hit home for me because it underscores the challenges our players face when transitioning from international duties back to the PBA. It’s a dynamic I’ve observed for years—the shift in tempo, the different defensive schemes, and the pressure to perform consistently. When the PBA season starts, we’ll see how these experiences shape key players like June Mar Fajardo or Scottie Thompson, who often juggle national team commitments. I believe this overlap makes the early matchups even more critical, as teams with Gilas veterans might struggle initially to find their rhythm.

One of the matchups I’m most excited about is the opening game between Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beermen. These two giants have a rivalry that’s pure basketball gold, and with Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee returning after his stellar Fiba Asia Cup performance, it’s going to be a spectacle. I’ve always been a bit biased toward Ginebra—their never-say-die attitude resonates with fans like me who love underdog stories. But San Miguel, with their deep roster, won’t make it easy. Last season, their clashes averaged over 95 points per game, and I expect this one to be even higher scoring, maybe pushing 105 points if both teams’ offenses click. Another must-watch game in the first week is TNT Tropang Giga versus Magnolia Hotshots. TNT’s Roger Pogoy, who had a standout Fiba window, will be up against Magnolia’s suffocating defense, which held opponents to just 88 points on average last conference. I think this duel could define the early standings, and personally, I’m rooting for TNT to pull off a close win, say 98-95, because their fast-paced style is just exhilarating to watch.

From a strategic perspective, the timing of the PBA season start is brilliant—it capitalizes on the post-Fiba momentum, drawing in fans eager to see how local stars translate their international form. I’ve spoken to coaches who emphasize the importance of these early games in setting the tone; in fact, teams that win their first two matches have historically made the playoffs 75% of the time over the past five seasons. That’s a stat I always keep in mind when analyzing schedules. For instance, if Ginebra can secure a victory against San Miguel, it could propel them to a strong conference run, whereas a loss might see them playing catch-up. It’s these nuances that make the PBA so captivating, and as someone who’s attended countless games, I can attest to the electric atmosphere in arenas during these pivotal clashes.

Looking ahead, the PBA’s integration of Fiba-caliber talent means we’re in for a season filled with high-level basketball. I predict that the mid-season additions, like potential imports averaging 25 points or more, will shake things up, but it’s the local players who’ll ultimately decide the championship. My advice to fellow fans? Don’t miss those first few weeks—they’re often a preview of the playoffs. As the league evolves, I’m optimistic that this season will not only entertain but also help elevate Philippine basketball globally, turning those tough Gilas lessons into PBA triumphs.