MANILA, Philippines -- Alab Pilipinas head coach Jimmy Alapag could only express his disappointment after their campaign in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) was halted due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The ABL announced last week that it was suspending its season indefinitely, as a precautionary measure against the pandemic.

"The ABL… sees no other recourse but to halt competitions in its ongoing 10th season," the ABL announced.

Alapag, who had steered Alab Pilipinas to a 10-6 win-loss record, said on Instagram that he "never expected our season to come to such an abrupt end."

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"But the safety of our players, staff, and of course the amazing fans of Alab Pilipinas and the ABL are the top priority," he added. "(I) would've loved to see this team on the court together. They deserved it!"

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At the time of the suspension, Alab was second in the league, and had yet to feature celebrated import Justin Brownlee. John Fields, their other import, had yet to play a game as well. Last week, Alab allowed the two players, along with their Fil-Am standouts, to fly back to the United States.

Only one ABL game had been played since February 23, and the league "explored all options" in an effort to continue its season. Given the circumstances, however, they had little choice but to do as the PBA and the NBA had done, and suspend all of its activities.

(For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website).