PBA All-Star 2026 Revives North vs South Format with Aguilar and Fajardo as Captains
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is set to bring back the classic North vs South format for its upcoming All-Star Game, with basketball icons June Mar Fajardo of the San Miguel Beermen and Japeth Aguilar of the Brgy. Ginebra Gin Kings leading their respective regional teams. This exciting revival marks a nostalgic return to a fan-favorite setup, promising high-energy competition and showcasing the league's top talent in a regional showdown.
South All-Stars Starting Lineup Led by Fajardo
June Mar Fajardo will captain the South All-Stars, supported by a formidable starting unit that includes:
- RJ Abarrientos and Scottie Thompson from the Gin Kings
- Calvin Oftana of the TNT Tropang 5G
- Robert Bolick from the NLEX Road Warriors
This lineup combines defensive prowess and offensive firepower, aiming to dominate the court with their cohesive play and experience.
North All-Stars Starting Lineup Under Aguilar's Leadership
Japeth Aguilar heads the North All-Stars, featuring a star-studded starting five that comprises:
- Calvin Abueva, the dynamic star from the Titan Ultra Giant Risers
- Juan Gomez de Liaño, the lead guard for the Converge FiberXers
- CJ Perez, a key guard from the San Miguel Beermen
- Stephen Holt, another guard representing the Gin Kings
This group is known for its athleticism and versatility, poised to challenge the South with aggressive strategies and fast-paced action.
Coaching Staff and Reserve Selection Process
The coaching duties for the All-Star teams will be handled by San Miguel coach Leo Austria and TNT coach Choy Reyes, who are currently guiding their teams in the ongoing Season 50 Philippine Cup finals series. Their leadership adds a strategic edge to the event, as they bring fresh insights from high-stakes playoff basketball.
In a collaborative effort, all 12 coaches from the PBA will participate in selecting the reserve players for both the North and South squads. This inclusive approach ensures a balanced and competitive roster, highlighting the depth of talent across the league and fostering team cohesion for the anticipated All-Star clash.
