MPBL’s Abra Weavers headline EASL opener at new Cebu arena

Abra Weavers will be representing the MPBL in the East Asia Super League double header in Cebu. –ABRA WEAVERS PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The East Asia Super League (EASL) will be the first league to hold a basketball game in the newly built SM Seaside Cebu Arena in Cebu next month.

The EASL announced on Wednesday that it will open the 2026-27 season in Cebu with a double-header that features the Philippines newest representative in the regional league.

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The reigning MPBL champions Abra Weavers take on former PBA guest team Hong Kong Eastern with a home court advantage.

“The Abra Weavers have earned this opportunity through their championship season, and I couldn’t think of a better way to introduce them to Asia than by opening the EASL season in front of Filipino basketball fans,” EASL CEO Henry Kerrins said.

This EASL season marks the first time an MPBL team joins the fray. Last year, the Meralco Bolts represented the Philippines and the PBA.

The opening day will also see a cross-regional bout between Mcau’s Hou Chon and the P.League+’s Taipei Fubon Braves.

“Launching the season in Cebu with four outstanding clubs, in a brand new arena, is the perfect way to begin our biggest and most exciting season yet,” Kerrins said.