After 5 long months, PBA players trained together again with their teammates as the league took a major step toward a potential season resumption late this year.

The training restart kicked off on Tuesday, August 25, after the players underwent swab testing for the coronavirus.

So far, teams are still barred from staging scrimmages as only 6 people – 4 players, 1 coach or trainer, and 1 safety officer – are allowed to be on the court at the same time.

Several teams stayed at their original practice facilities in Metro Manila as other clubs headed to the province.

The Phoenix Fuel Masters, for instance, still practice at the The Upper Deck in Ortigas, Pasig City while the TNT KaTropa train at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna.

The practice resumption of select pro sports leagues pushed through following the approval of the Inter-Agency Task Force, Department of Health, Games and Amusements Board, and Philippine Sports Commission.

Players from amateur and collegiate leagues are still prohibited from training as a team. (READ: IATF taps CHED on UST ‘bubble’ issue)

If the training restart turns out to be a success, the PBA plans to hold the postponed Philippine Cup by October, with the league looking to copy the bubble concept of the NBA. – Rappler.com