The league, while fully understanding that the ratings will obviously not be met with enthusiasm from all players, nevertheless believes that this new approach is the way forward as it will ensure semi-pro basketball as a viable industry for generations to come.
In addition to the releasing of the player ratings the BBA also confirms that the lottery draw will be held on November 22, 2005 while the actual Draft Day will be November 29, 2005, at the National Sports Council conference room. Both events will be broadcast live via radio and possibly television, similarly to what is done in the NBA draft. In light of this all players whose names appear on the rating sheet, are asked to be present at the draft.
To date several clubs have shown interest in participating and they include defending champions BTL Nets, Corozal, University of Belize, Port of Belize, the Belize Bank Ltd, Belmopan, San Pedro and Corozal. Notably missing from this list are the Raiders, who were a mainstay in the league from its inception in 1992.
We have been informed that the deadline for confirmation of club participation is November 22, 2005, and this should be accompanied with $1,000.00, which is not a registration fee but rather a ?commitment fee? which will be refunded by the league at the start of the season, and is established solely for the purpose of ensuring that clubs who have committed cannot withdraw later down the road.
According to BBA commissioner, Troy Gabb, the league will absorb all operational costs for this year only, making it easy for clubs to operate within a $30,000.00 cap, which in my opinion is a reasonable and workable arrangement. But for it to be successful it will require maturity and commitment from all stakeholders.
Another attractive part of this plan is the $25,000.00 winner takes it all cash prize, which is a rather handsome and hefty sum of money.
From the desk we support this new semi-pro concept and view it as a step in the right direction. We commend the league and all those involved who have demonstrated the will to facilitate the process, and similarly we urge the players to embrace it, be patient, give the league time to grow, and remember the saying, ?If you want the rainbow, you have to put up with the rain?– Unknown.