Hong Kong basketball team changes name to Bay Area Dragons, moving to Philippines to play in Governors’ Cup
- The East Asia Super League side Bay Area Chun Yu Phoenix is re-branding and relocating to Manila
- Officials say switch is only temporary while Covid-19 restrictions in Hong Kong impact travel across the region
Formerly known as the Bay Area Chun Yu Phoenix, the Dragons announced they were joining the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) next Governors’ Cup, which will be played later this year.
The Dragons will be the league’s first Chinese guest team. The name change is out of respect for the established PBA team Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters.
“This new regional partnership is an opportunity for Filipino and Chinese basketball players to elevate their level through elite competition, while gaining massive exposure,” Matt Beyer, the EASL CEO, said.
“The PBA is honoured to welcome the Bay Area Dragons, bringing the best talent in Greater China to the Philippines to play in the PBA Governors’ Cup,” Ricky Vargas, the PBA board’s chairman, said.
“This one-of-a-kind club will attract enormous international attention and help the PBA expand its market in Asia. We also believe that the addition of the Dragons will dramatically increase the level of competition for Filipino and Chinese basketball.”
