Unpatriotic sentiments aside, the ASEAN Basketball League is starting to enjoy a growing number of fanbase here and abroad (a quick jump to their Facebook page reveals 11,283 followers and counting). And while the level of talent is still not at par with some of Asia's commercial leagues, it's nice to see the sport growing in popularity (and Filipinos flourishing of course).
While much of the success should be credited to the genius of Harbour Center's Mikee Romero and that rich Malaysian mogul behind Air Asia (who are now both bankrolling the Philippine Patriots), credit should also be given to the whole league landing a TV deal with ESPN Star Sports. That alone puts it in a higher pedestal than FIBA tournaments held at this side of the world.
