TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Three teams from Taiwan's P.LEAGUE+ (PLG) announced Monday (July 8) their withdrawal from the new league preparations. T1 League President Chien Wei-chuan (錢薇娟) acknowledged the merger's direction as correct but cited communication challenges.
Chien compared the merger process to "demolishing an old house," emphasizing the need for time and dialogue. "We can only communicate through time, we can sit down and talk again, and spend more effort on discussion," she stated. "Although the time is a bit tight, resulting in insufficient communication, this is the most unfortunate thing, I think the direction is completely correct and there is no problem."
Originally, PLG and T1 League had scheduled a joint draft for July 15. However, following the withdrawal of the Taipei Fubon Braves (台北富邦勇士), Kaohsiung 17 Live Steelers (高雄17直播鋼鐵人), and Taoyuan Pauian Pilots (桃園璞園領航猿), the PLG announced it would hold its own draft on July 12.
PLG Vice President Charles "Blackie" Chen (陳建州) expressed gratitude towards the teams for their support and commitment to the PLG brand. He added that the league still hopes for integration and will not abandon any opportunities.
The developments indicate a turbulent period for Taiwan's professional basketball, with the potential for further changes. Fans and stakeholders will watch closely as the situation evolves.