The opening games for East Asia Super League’s (EASL) 2026-27 season will feature a marquee double-header day, set to tip-off on October 3 at the brand new SM Seaside Cebu Arena in Cebu, Philippines. This will also mark the first professional basketball game held at the venue.

The opening day will feature two exciting cross-border match-ups, beginning with Macau Hou Chon making its EASL debut against P. LEAGUE+’s Taipei Fubon Braves, before hometown favorites Abra Weavers, the reigning Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) champions, take on Hong Kong Eastern.

The tip-off games mark the beginning of EASL’s 2026-27 season, bringing together Asia’s champion clubs to compete for regional supremacy while showcasing the league’s continued commitment to growing basketball across the continent.

“This season represents another significant step forward for EASL,” said Henry Kerins, CEO of EASL. “Our next level vision is about raising the standard in every aspect of our league – from the quality of competition and fan experience to our storytelling and production. Launching the season in Cebu with four outstanding clubs, in a brand new arena, is the perfect way to begin our biggest and most exciting season yet.”

The opening day also represents a historic moment for the Abra Weavers, who will make their EASL debut after becoming the first MPBL club to qualify for the league. Manny Pacquiao, founder of the MPBL, welcomed the opportunity to open the season in Cebu.

“The Abra Weavers have earned this opportunity through their championship season, and I couldn’t think of a better way to introduce them to Asia than by opening the EASL season in front of Filipino basketball fans. This is another proud milestone for the MPBL and Philippine basketball, and we’re excited to see Abra represent our league on the regional stage.”

Tickets for the tip-off games will go on sale through SM outlets and Ticketmaster beginning September 3, 2026 at 3:00PM PHT. More details on ticket pricing and seat charts will be announced in the coming days.

‍