Asian Tournament powerhouse Team Aces express interest in joining PBA

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) remains the most popular sports league in the Philippines and holds the distinction of being the first professional basketball league in Asia and the second-oldest in the world, behind only the National Basketball Association (NBA).

With the league’s continued growth and strong following, several foreign teams have expressed interest in joining the PBA, including Hong Kong Eastern Lions and Macau Black Bears. The latest franchise to signal its intention is Team Aces, the most dominant squad in The Asian Tournament.

Team captain Denzel Wong confirmed the team’s interest on behalf of the management, citing their desire to compete at the highest level.

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“If given the chance, of course, we will join. Yung boss namin interested to join sa mga international tournaments, so kung may chance being a guest team, why not,” Wong said during a media interaction.

The Aces have built a formidable reputation in The Asian Tournament, establishing themselves as one of the league’s most successful teams. They recently secured their sixth leg title after defeating host team Ilagan Isabela Cowboys in the finals at the Capital Arena in Ilagan City.

IF things will work out according to plan, there may be another Aces joining the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). https://t.co/3VsaJANgMs

— The Manila Times (@TheManilaTimes) December 17, 2025

Wong is confident that the Aces possess the talent and depth to compete in elite professional leagues, pointing to the team’s culture and collective effort as key strengths.

“It’s always been teamwork. Like in our championship game, I had a bad game, but there is always someone who would step up. We play like a team, like a family, ever since Day One. Whatever is needed to win, we do it,” he added.

Two of the Aces’ standout players, Jaxon Cobb and Tony Mitchell, have already experienced playing in front of Filipino fans and are eager for the opportunity to compete in the PBA, widely regarded as one of the top leagues in Southeast Asia.

“I love it when they were screaming my name. They get excited when I dunk. It definitely keeps me going and brings a smile on my face. I have teammates who did play in the PBA. I’m only 24 and I would love if I can get something here in the Philippines,” Cobb said.

Mitchell echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the team’s chemistry and recent success.

“It was a great experience for us. We have just won back-to-back championships dating back to the previous tournament in China. We were really enjoying ourselves. We have a great camaraderie off the court and when we go inside the court, it goes naturally for us,” Mitchell added.

The NAIC Aces, a Philippine-based team composed of both local players and international imports, currently compete in the NCAA and other international tournaments. Whether their ambition of joining the PBA materializes in the near future remains to be seen, but their growing profile and sustained success make them an intriguing prospect for the league.

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