The Bay Area Dragons, a basketball team based in Hong Kong, are set to bring the excitement of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) to their home court. After their impressive run in last year’s Commissioner’s Cup, where they reached the finals, the Dragons ar ready to make their return to the PBA in the upcoming import-laden conference. What makes this comeback even more special is that they will also play some of their games in Hong Kong, in addition to the matches scheduled in the Philippines.
PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial expressed his enthusiasm about adding a Hong Kong element to the upcoming Commissioner’s Cup, stating, “The PBA is very excited about adding in a Hong Kong element to our upcoming Commissioner’s Cup, and we look forward to the Bay Area Dragons team re-joining the PBA.” This marks the second time the Dragons will compete in the PBA, following their memorable showdown with Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in last year’s finals, which went down in history as a classic seven-game series, culminating in a new PBA attendance record of 54,589 fans. Although they fell short in the elimination game against the Gin Kings, losing 114-99, the Dragons are eager to make a strong comeback and prove their mettle in the league.
The Dragons have a busy schedule ahead as they also participate in Season 2 of the East Asia Super League (EASL), a league they helped create. They will face off against tough competition, including Ginebra, the 2022-23 champions of Japan’s B.LEAGUE, Ryukyu Golden Kings, and the runners-up of Korea’s Basketball League 2022-23, Seoul SK Knights. This provides the Dragons with another opportunity for redemption and a chance to showcase their skills on an international stage.
The decision to make Hong Kong their home court is part of their partnership with the local team Chun Yu Basketball Club and has received recognition from the Hong Kong Basketball Association. This collaboration will see the Dragons carrying the name Chun Yu Bay Area Dragons in the 2023-2024 season, along with new uniforms, branding, and logos. The team’s home court will be at the Southorn Stadium, and their games are expected to generate immense excitement, inspiration, and pride among Hong Kong basketball fans.
The Dragons will bring back familiar faces to their roster, including Chinese stars Zhu Songwei and Liu Chuanxing, Team Hong Kong captain Duncan Reid, and former South China standout Glen Yang. As the formal introduction of their roster for the next season approaches, new players will also be introduced to further strengthen the team.
The coaching staff, led by head coach Brian Goorjian, along with assistant coaches William Tomlinson and Jimmy Li, and strength and conditioning coach Francesco Berre, will continue to guide the Dragons. General Manager Liu Quansheng and Vice General Manager Garrison Guo will oversee the team’s operations, ensuring a cohesive and successful season ahead.
The Bay Area Dragons’ return to the PBA and their commitment to the East Asia Super League showcase their determination to excel in both local and international basketball competitions. As they represent Hong Kong and the Chun Yu Bay Area Dragons, the team aims to bring pride and excitement to their fans while leaving a lasting mark in the basketball world.