Uratex Dream Becomes First Filipino Team to Reach the Final at the Red Bull Half Court World Final in New York

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Uratex Dream proudly makes a mark on the global stage as the first Filipino team, and the only Southeast Asian team, to reach the final stage for the women’s division at the Red Bull Half Court World Final, held last October 19 and 20 at the Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York. This momentous achievement heralds a remarkable milestone for the basketball-loving nation in the world of competitive streetball.

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The team scored victories against some of the world’s best including Australia’s “Not Fast But Furious,” the United States’ “Team SLAM,” Egypt’s “Amigos,” Ukraine’s “Prykarppattya,” and Belgium’s “On Fire.” Kaye Pingol, Afril Bernardino, Sam Harada, and Eunique Chan of Uratex Dream went up against Japan’s “Tokyo Verdy” in the final round of the competition. Ultimately, the Filipino team lost with a score of 8 against Japan’s 11.

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Uratex Dream’s second place finish is a huge leap from their performance at last year’s Red Bull Half Court World Final in Serbia where their journey peaked and ended in the quarterfinal. Fans should keep an eye out as the Philippines continues to build momentum in the global streetball competition. Catch the next edition of the Red Bull Half Court.

To find out more, visit the official Red Bull website and the following social media pages (Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok )

Benilde emerges as Grand Champion in vivo 3 on 3 Basketball Challenge

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De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) claimed victory as the Grand Champion in the thrilling vivo 3 on 3 Basketball Challenge Grand Finals held on November 18 and 19, 2023, at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia.

Twelve formidable teams from six universities, namely Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU), University of the Philippines Diliman, Jose Rizal University (JRU), National University, DLS-CSB, and De La Salle University, fiercely competed for the coveted title in this adrenaline-packed event.

DLS-CSB dominance in Final Round

In a final showdown, two powerhouse teams from DLS-CSB - Benilde B1 and Benilde B2 - battled for supremacy.

Benilde B2 emerged victorious with a decisive score of 21-14, securing their place as the Grand Champions with over two minutes remaining on the clock. Benilde B1 claimed the first runner-up position.

The second and third runner-up spots went to LPU Team B and JRU Team Considerate, showcasing the intense competition among the top-tier teams.

Allen Bryan Siwag, a 22-year-old BSBA Export Management student at DLS-CSB and a key member of the Grand Champion team, emphasized the profound impact of the tournament on youth, stating, "Sobrang laki ng impact nito para sa mga kabataan kasi nabibigyan kami ng chance na ma-showcase yung talent namin."

Siwag expressed gratitude, saying, "Unang una, gusto kong magpasalamat kay God sa blessings na binigay niya, sa CSB community, at sa buong vivo team na nag umpisa ng liga nito kasi sobrang dami naming natutunan. Sana marami pang sumunod na ganitong liga."

The 4-member Grand Champion was honored with a trophy, medals, and cutting-edge vivo V29e 5G for their exceptional performance. Meanwhile, the runners up received medals and vivo phones, such as Y27, Y17s, and Y02t.

Heartwarming act of kindness

First runner-up Benilde B1 demonstrated a heartwarming act of kindness. Ralph Vincent Baliquig, a 20-year-old Bachelor of Science Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management (BS HRIM) student, shared that their victory was a gift for their teammate, Irele Galas. "Pinlano talaga namin to, nag work talaga kami kasi yung teammate namin, para sa kanya to. Wala siyang phone. Binigay namin sa kanya lahat," he said.

Galas, a 21-year-old Tourism Management student, expressed gratitude for the gesture and praised the vivo Y27 he received, saying, "Ang ganda po ng bagong phone. Ang ganda ng camera niya."

Inspiring messages to fellow youth

The basketball players shared inspiring messages with their fellow youth. Siwag encouraged aspiring basketball players, stating, "Sa mga kabataan na nangangarap na maging basketball player, ituloy niyo lang ang pangarap ninyo. Wala namang hahadlang sa inyo."

Baliquig added, "Sa mga kabataan na katulad ko, huwag lang kayong huminto sa mga pangarap ninyo. Ituloy ninyo lang ang trabaho. Mag workout kayo palagi. Iwas din kayo sa bisyo."

As the official partner of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the vivo 3 on 3 Basketball Challenge represents a dedicated initiative aimed at fostering growth and enthusiasm for the sport within the country, with a particular focus on engaging and inspiring the youth.

The Grand Finals not only showcased exceptional basketball skills but also highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among the participating universities.

If you missed the vivo 3 on 3 Basketball Challenge Grand Finals, you can watch the livestream video at https://www.facebook.com/vivo.philippines/videos/1003511567543025.

For the latest news and updates, follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok and its official website.

J&T Express takes part in new PBA 3x3 season, announces powerhouse roster

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Datu, Hayes, Rono, Sedurifa, and Teng make up the powerhouse J&T Express Basketball team

Express delivery service giant J&T Express Philippines unveiled its official roster of basketball players to compete in the coming season of PBA 3x3 Lakas ng Tatlo. The official announcement was made in a public and media event, the J&T Express Dunk Fest, held last September 6.

Vice President of J&T Express Philippines Zoe Chi said the newly fostered partnership with the Philippine Basketball Association marks an exciting chapter for the company, “We are thrilled that our company's motivation chant, “Laban J&T!” will now be heard not only within the courts of PBA but also in the homes of Filipino basketball fans and far beyond.”

The J&T Express Basketball team is composed of basketball giants Keith Datu, Marvin Hayes, Robin Rono, Joseph Sedurifa, and Jeric Teng. The coaching team will be headed by 3x3 top athlete Coach Ryan Monteclaro.

Part of the highlights of the event was a jersey signing ceremony by the J&T Express Chief Executive Officer Mr. Dean Ding, J&T Express Vice President Ms. Zoe Chi, PBA 3x3 Chairman Mr. Richard Bachmann, and the J&T Express Basketball team.

Chi also shared that the express delivery company’s new venture with PBA was inspired by its employees’ common love for basketball, “to all our hardworking employees— from Manila region, from Urdaneta, Dagupan, Cabuyao, Laguna, Albay, Samar, and all other regions, from our directors, managers, supervisors, call centers, sorters, riders, drivers, HR, legal, procurement, IT, sales and etc.—this is all for you. Apart from our shared dedication to our work, we understand that our love for basketball is what unites us all.”

Last month, J&T Express held its very own Basketball Cup in which different basketball teams organized by J&T regional teams nationwide competed for head to head for the winning title. The title was clinched by the J&T Express Eastern Visayas basketball team. All-star players from the Basketball Cup got the opportunity to play with the J&T Express Basketball team as among the highlights of the Dunk Fest.

The PBA 3x3 Lakas ng Tatlo will kickoff on September 10, 2022 at the Robinsons Antipolo. Game runs and replays will be shown on CIGNAL TV, TV5, One Sports, and the Smart GigaPlay App.

Game highlights, best plays and behind the scenes of the J&T Express Basketball team will also be posted at the official J&T Express Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok accounts.

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About J&T Express Philippines

Founded in August 2015, J&T Express is a rapidly growing international delivery company, with its core business in express services and cross-border logistics. J&T Express is committed to continuously creating integrated quality experiences for its customers globally. J&T Express’ network spans thirteen countries including Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore, China, Brazil, the UAE, Saudi Arabia Mexico, and Egypt, and serves over two billion people.

Get Ready for Epic Hardcourt Action in PBA Season 47 Grand Opening on June 5

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Star-studded, week-long festivities highlight the biggest, re-energized, most intense PBA season yet

After the successful run of the Governor's Cup Season 46, with the Finals series hitting record breaking ratings and audience shares since 2016 and attracting one of the biggest live crowd attendance, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) continues to evolve and rise mightier as it kicks off Season 47 with a week-long lineup of star-studded and spectacular festivities leading to the grand season opening on June 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Airing live on TV5, One Sports and Cignal TV’s PBA Rush, PBA Season 47 becomes one of the most highly anticipated comebacks among basketball enthusiasts hungry for hardcourt action.

Leading up to the June 5 Opening Ceremonies is a week-long trail of activities for the PBA — starting with a press conference on May 30, Pre-Season TV Specials on June 1 and 3 (airing at 6:00 pm on TV5 & PBA Rush), an Officials Meeting & Media Day on June 2, and a fireworks display on June 4. The Leo Awards and the much-awaited PBA Season 47 Opening on June 5 will be aired live on TV5, One Sports, and Cignal TV’s PBA Rush.

To kick things off, the PBA Season 46 Leo Awards will be taking place as a pre-event to the Season 47 opening ceremony. The awarding ceremonies will be hosted by none other than sportscaster and former national athlete Denise Tan and sports journalist Jutt Sulit. This award-giving body allows PBA to continue its tradition and honor last season’s standouts, recognizing the recipients of the following categories: Most Valuable Player, Mythical Selection, Rookie of the Year, All-Defensive Team, Most Improved Player, and Samboy Lim Sportsmanship Award.

PBA fans can look forward to the opening ceremonies hosted by TV personality and former volleyball star Gretchen Ho and comedian-actor Vhong Navarro, with celebrity performances by Lovi Poe, Buganda Drumline, G-Force dancers, Born to be a Star winner Jehramae Trangia, One Voice Children’s Choir, POPinoy winners, and Sing Galing Kantastic 6.

This season’s campaign, “Game Tayo Dito!”, highlights the all-new level of intensity and the competitiveness the teams are bringing. A campaign that resonates to the basketball game, the players, the league, the broadcast team and most especially to the fans. Nothing can stop the PBA from shooting up to greater heights as the passion for the game forges on. 

Now back to its original three full conferences format, stay tuned to TV5, One Sports, and Cignal TV’s PBA Rush for the most thrilling PBA action this Season 47.

Makati Skyscrapers now known as Makati Super Crunch

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Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) team launches its new name -  from Makati Skyscrapers, they will now be known as the Makati Super Crunch. The PriFood company with new product Super Crunch supports Makati MPBL team.

Super Crunch owner Enrico Yap Jr.  

Team owner Paolo Orbeta recently announce its partnership with Super Crunch, a leading product of PriFood, owned by Enrico Yap Jr.

"We are happy with the support of Super Crunch and we are grateful to Mr. Yap for the trust in the Makati team," Orbeta says.

"We promise to work harder and play better games so we can make Super Crunch proud of us," says co team owner Paolo Pineda.

Makati team Manager Martin Arenas said that Super Crunch has plans to enter the PBA in the coming years and if given the chance "would like to be of help also to our national team and other sports as well."

There will be fun activities with Super Crunch team,  and will bring more exciting games with FREE Super Crunch products to be given to basketball fans and Makati Super Crunch supporters.  

Watch out for more as Super Crunch supports a super MPBL Makati team.

Basketball coach is Mang Inasal’s 2018 Gawad Pilipinoy’s new hero

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Basketball is the most-loved sport in the Philippines. For Filipinos, the ball game is more than just a pastime – it is training ground for discipline and sportsmanship, as well as for building friendships and camaraderie.

Utilizing basketball as a means to inspire and teach life lessons to underprivileged youth, Coach Ruben Lanot II was recently honored as the Mang Inasal’s 2018 Gawad Pilipinoy awardee.

Making use of basketball as a means to inspire and teach life lessons to underprivileged youth, 35-year-old Ruben Lanot II, a tireless and dedicated basketball coach, was recently honored as the Mang Inasal’s 2018 Gawad Pilipinoy awardee.

Coach Ruben Lanot II (center) receives the Gawad Pilipinoy 2018 trophy from (L-R) Mang Inasal Head Jojo Subido and Marketing Head Aileen Natividad.

The leading Pinoy chicken inasal brand’s very own recognition program for the country’s modern-day heroes,Gawad Pilipinoy cites outstanding individuals who represent galing ng Pinoy by fulfilling a passion or vocation that uplifts the lives of the less fortunate.

“Mang Inasal Philippines wishes to promote positive Filipino values by recognizing individuals who exemplify them, like Coach Ruben, who dedicated his life to teaching the youth the importance of sportsmanship and realizing their dreams through basketball. He fulfills his passion for the game while inspiring kids to love the sport and make it as an instrument to improve their lives,” said Mang Inasal Head Jojo P. Subido.

Coach Ruben started his love affair with the game at a very young age of six. He grew a deep liking for the sport while watching Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) games. He became a varsity player in his senior year at the University of Sto. Tomas, and after graduation, eventually found coaching basketball as his calling.

His decision to quit his day job as an office employee in favor of coaching was further strengthened when he was commissioned to join the Junior NBA program as coach, where he was able to meet and coach talented young players from different provinces. It was there that he thought that these raw talents, when given the right training, equipment, and the opportunity to play, would become even better players.

Founder of Hoops Dreams, Coach Ruben holds basketball training sessions at the Taguig Tenement, where the young players are not only coached on the game, but also on life lessons that will help them achieve their dreams

“I was able to relate to those aspiring young players since I myself didn’t come from an affluent family. When I was just starting to play, I didn’t have access to scientific basketball. That’s why I want these kids to experience what I didn’t get to enjoy before. Wala ako noong coach na masasabi kong naghulma sa akin nung bata ako about basketball (I didn’t have a coach whom I can say molded me as a young kid trying to play basketball),” Coach Ruben said.

These experiences inspired him to start his “Hoop Dreams” advocacy program, which aims to help those youth who aspire of becoming basketball players by giving them the skills, the drills, the right values, and even the jerseys and the shoes they need for the game. For the program, Coach Ruben partners with different orphanages, associations and organizations, which are looking for ways to give indigent youth better opportunities.

Coach Ruben holds basketball training sessions at the Taguig Tenement, where the young players are coached on the game, but also on life lessons that will help them achieve their dreams. As far as Coach Ruben is concerned, he exerts the same amount of sacrifice and effort to train the kids from the tenement as well as those children attending the private school where Ruben also coaches.

“Through basketball, I am able to give the youth, especially the underprivileged ones, a new reason to dream and hope that they can be good at something. That’s the best thing about pursuing my passion in basketball – I am able to fulfill the purpose behind that passion – that is, to be able to help others. Kaya’t hanggang may batang gustong matuto, nandito lang si Coach Ruben para sa kanila (As long as there are kids who want to learn, Coach Ruben is just here for them),” he said.

With Coach Ruben’s selfless use of his skills and passion to help the Pinoy youth through basketball, he is definitely a deserving recipient of the 2018 Gawad Pilipinoy award. 

Get to know more about Coach Ruben from the 2018 Gawad Pilipinoy Awards video at Mang Inasal Philippines’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/MangInasalPhilippines/).

Amaia VisMin gives youngsters a summer to remember

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Summer is always a happy and memorable time for children. It conjures up a laidback and carefree season when kids just want to have fun with friends and family. 

This is why top-of-mind affordable real estate provider Amaia Land helped kids in its Visayas-Mindanao communities experience a fun-filled but productive summer last May.

For aspiring young hoopsters, a basketball sports clinic was held last May 5, 12, 19, and 26 at Amaia Scapes Northpoint. Experts and professionals from the field helped kids aged 7 to 10 years old hone their skills on dribbling, passing and shooting, even as they enjoyed playing with other participants.

Amaia Scapes Iloilo also held its “Kids Day Out!” event last May 25, 26, and 27 during which the youngsters—aged 6 to 12 years old—were provided with playground inflatables to play in and bounce on. They were also enjoined to participate in face painting and arts and crafts sessions. To top it all, all the kids received snacks, loot bags, and other freebies from Amaia.

 

Grace Guinto of Amaia Land says that their Summersaya program was intended not only to provide fun and amusement to residents and neighbors but also to encourage families to spend quality time together.

Guinto likewise relates that “the Summersaya activities fostered a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among the Amaia communities’ children and helped boost their self-confidence, improve their social skills, and enhance their creative expression.” 

Looking forward to holding similar activities in the future, Guinto also wishes to thank their partners who helped make these events possible. 

For inquiries about Amaia projects and developments, check out www.amaialand.com or like www.facebook.com/AmaiaLand.

Scottie Thompson is now the brand ambassador of Icy Cool Shake - one of the best shake hawker in Ph

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Scottie Thompson (Earl Scottie Carreon Thompson), Filipino professional basketball player for the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), is now the brand ambassador of Icy Cool Shake - one of the best shake hawker in the Philippines.

Choose your drink and take a sip from their amazing flavor shakes such as Black Forest, Choco Kisses, Cookies And Cream, Buko, Buko Pandan, Macapuno, Melon, Ube, Ube Macapuno, Strawberry, Taro, Mango Carabao, Caramel Macchiato, Choco Hot Fudge, Choco Mousse, Double Dutch, Rocky Road and Cappuccino.

Photo : Fastbreak 

Scottie is from Davao Del Sur, started at Palarong Pambansa then moved up to the NCAA as a player for University of Perpetual Help and now part of Barangay Ginebra of the PBA.

Scottie is the perfect brand ambassador of Icy Cool Shake because they know he can carry the brand real well,” shared by Ms. Icy Mendoza, CEO and owner of Icy Cool Shake. 

 “Scottie even mentioned that the brand is perfect for him because he also keep himself cool even when he is playing basketball and after playing, he can also cool off and enjoy a break by drinking their shakes.”

Scottie said that he is honored to be part of the Icy Cool Shake because it’s perfect for him especially after practice and game. He is looking forward to try all their flavors and is excited to try his favorite , the Taro flavor.

Scottie has a business of his own – gym, “as early as now I know how to invest in business because I want to be secure in my future,” said Scottie, that’s why he would also love to have a franchise of Icy Cool.

For more details about Icy Cool Shake, visit the following www.icycoolshake.com.ph and Facebook Icy Cool Shake and for franchising, delivery and catering, contact Ms. Icy Mendoza via 0917-7051345 / (046) 402-7282 or email icycool820@gmail.com. 

All is set for the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) on ABS-CBN Sports +Action premiere on January 25

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The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), a new regional-concept basketball league which is a brainchild of Senator Manny Pacquiao, opens its first season this Thursday, January 25 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City, and will be shown live on ABS-CBN Sports + Action. 

MPBL gives fresh and undiscovered Filipino basketball talents from local communities and former collegiate and professional players their chance to shine on national TV.

“This will support the youth who are interested in the sports. This will be great help to them. From the grassroots, we are going to discover good players. “Hindi naman kami nakikipag compete sa ibang liga, kundi ito ay ambag, tulong din sa pag-promote ng basketball dito sa Pilipinas. It’s possible that players who shine in the MPBL will eventually get the opportunity to be drafted by other leagues so it could be complementary,” Pacquiao said. 

Arnold Vegafria

Arnold Vegafria, AVL Events International Chairman, happens to be the business manager of Manny Pacquiao and now the overall head of production and marketing of MPBL says, 

"Through Senator Manny Pacquiao's vision, we have a basketball league that truly reaches the grassroots level. Finally, Filipinos from all walks of life who have the talent and passion for the game will be able to show their mettle in the hardcourt. We are thankful for I hope advertisers and basketball fans will support this. This is another platform where Filipinos can find their potential basketball heroes." 

Dino Laurena, Abs-Cbn Sports head expressed his excitement with the entry of the MPBL S+A, which aims to give grassroots athletes and undrafted or untapped basketball players a venue to showcase their skills and continue to pursue their basketball dreams. 

“It was very natural for us to get together because of our shared vision for Philippines sports and our desire to support Filipino athletes in the grassroots level. Serendipitously, we are celebrating the anniversary of the MBA (Metropolitan Basketball Association) this year, which had the same concept and objective,” he said.

All games in the MPBL will feature a home-and-away format similar to the old Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA). Similar to the MBA, the MPBL features teams that represent a province, city, or municipality in the country and has a home and away format that will give the teams a chance to play in their home court in front of their fans. Currently, the league has 10 teams from Metro Manila and Luzon, and will eventually expand to include teams from Visayas and Mindanao.

This first MPBL season, ten teams will compete in the maiden conference of the league, namely Bataan, Batangas, Bulacan, Caloocan, Imus, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Quezon City, and Valenzuela.

They will compete in a single-round robin elimination round with each team hosting at least two home games in their respective arenas.

Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) heads during  media  conference, Annabel's Restaurant, January 22.

Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes also said that each team is required to have at least three players that are truly homegrown to the area.

“The advantage of this is really the pride of the players playing for their respective provinces and cities. We also believe that it will be more exciting because of the support of the fans for their teams. In the preseason, we can really see that they are excited as they also want to see their home players succeed,” he adds

“We would like to thank Sports and Action and ABS-CBN for this. There's a lot of talent na mabibigyan ng chance,” Commissioner Duremdes said.

MPBL team coordinator Emmerson Oreta, a former professional player like Duremdes, added that their long-term goal is to have all teams featuring all homegrown players, like their preseason champion, the Bulacan Kuyas.

Helping Duremdes and Oreta in running the league is another former professional and national team player Zaldy Realubit, who heads the operations, and assistant commissioner Satar Macantal, Pacquiao’s childhood friend who played for Pacquiao’s local team and helped him organize basketball leagues in their hometown of General Santos City.

To further encourage fans to watch the opening at the Araneta Coliseum, Vegafria said they will be giving away one car and ten motorbikes on January 25.

Don’t miss the premiere of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League on January 25 live from the SMART Araneta Colisuem on ABS-CBN S+A and S+A HD. 

The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League telecast is a production of AVL Events International and ABS-CBN Sports + Action. 

Catch the games every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 7 pm to 11 pm. Watch online via iwantv.com.ph or skyondemand.com.ph. For news and updates, visit sports.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbnsports on Facebook and Twitter.

Jr. NBA presented by Alaska - Nurturing Young Talents Through Sports

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Jr. NBA Philippines 2017 presented by Alaska returns to the Philippines. On its 10th year, the Jr. NBA is set to tip off on January 21, Saturday, at the Don Bosco Makati.

Alaska’s partnership with NBA Philippines is in line with Alaska’s commitment to promoting sports and outdoor play in the Philippines. 

Beyond being a sports clinic, the Jr. NBA is an avenue for children to showcase their talents, improve their skills and be trained under Jr. NBA coaches. Side by side with Alaska, the program aims to promote basketball participation, sportsmanship, teamwork and active lifestyle among children.

Jr NBA Philippines 2017 presented by Alaska tips off program with open clinics for Filipino youth

“The Jr. NBA Program is a great fit with Alaska’s mission to nurture young talents and to promote healthy and active lifestyle through sports and outdoor play,” says Wilfred Uytengsu, Alaska Milk Corporation President & CEO.

Based on the 8th National Nutrition Survey in 2013 by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), obesity is one of the most prevalent nutritional problems of Filipino children with about 5 out of 100 Filipino children are overweight.

Given the growing issues on health, Alaska believes that there is a need to reinforce its thrust in leading a healthy lifestyle not just by drinking milk but by living actively through sports and other outdoor activities. Alaska seeks to engage the Filipino consumers, especially the youth, through its sports development programs to help nourish children to become champions.

Jr NBA participants work on their agility during the clinic

“With Alaska as our partner, the Jr. NBA program has reached hundreds of schools and communities nationwide and benefited thousands of children, parents, and coaches through grassroots activities like basketball training camps and school clinics, NBA Cares outreach projects, television programs and online initiatives,” says NBA Philippines Managing Director Carlo Singson.

This year, thousands of students, parents, and coaches are expected to benefit through the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA activities. The program is composed of four stages: the school and open clinics, the Regional Selection Camps, a National Training Camp and the NBA experience trip.

The schools and open clinics will be held nationwide from January through March. Clinics will be held in Bacolod, Batangas, Cagayan De Oro, Cavite, Cebu, Metro Manila and Subic. Select players from these clinics will get the chance to showcase their talents during the Regional Selection Camps, which will be held in Cagayan de Oro City on February 11-12, Lucena City on February 25-26, Cebu City on March 11-12, and Makati City on April 1-2.

Jr NBA Philippines 2016 All-Stars with Norris Cole and WNBA Legend Taj McWilliams-Franklin

From the Regional Selection Camps, the top 37 boys and 37 girls will advance to the National Training Camp in Manila. The National Training Camp will have (names of NBA/WNBA talents) in attendance to help train the pool.

In the end of the National Training Camp, eight Jr. NBA and 8 Jr. WNBA aspirants will be selected to comprise this year’s All Stars. They will travel with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from Southeast Asia for a unique, overseas NBA experience later in the year.

The Jr. NBA Program is the international youth development program of the NBA. It aims to promote basketball participation, sportsmanship, teamwork and active lifestyle among children. It emphasizes fundamental skills development and the formation of STAR values – Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Positive Attitude, and Respect.

The program is free and open to children ages 5 to 14 years old. It provides children the opportunity to showcase their talent, improve their skills and be trained under Jr. NBA coaches, and participate in friendly matches with high school varsity teams from abroad.

With the success of the Jr. NBA program in the Philippines, Alaska’s mother company FrieslandCampina, extended its partnership to cover 4 countries in Asia – Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. In 2014, Alaska launched the Jr. WNBA program to widen the reach of the sport to girls all over the country.

Interested participants and coaches may register online through www.jrnbaphilippines.com. 

For live updates, follow Alaska PlayPh on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

To learn more about the Alaska Milk Corporation, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.playph.com.

BEST Center opens weekend clinics

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The clinics provide scientific training in basketball and volleyball for young boys and girls

BEST (Basketball Efficiency and Scientific Training) Center, the award-winning school for basketball and volleyball, will have another series of clinics for aspiring basketball and volleyball players at the Ateneo College Covered Courts and Starmall Alabang.

The highly anticipated classes at the Ateneo College Covered Court will be held every Saturday on September 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, November 5 and Sunday, November 6 from 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Students in Preparatory Level and Levels 1-5 will be joining the basketball clinic while volleyball will be for levels 1 and 2. 

Meanwhile, clinics at Starmall Alabang are held every Sunday on September 18 and 25 and October 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Joining these classes are students belonging to the Preparatory Level and Levels 1-4.

“Sports are vital in the children’s growth and development. Aside from honing their athletic skills and encouraging kids to lead a healthy, active lifestyle, it also helps them learn self-discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship and perseverance”, remarked Jorge. 

The clinics provide scientific training for young boys and girls of varying skills and age levels which includes the fundamentals on ball handling, dribbling, passing, shooting, spiking, serving, blocking, footwork and defensive and offensive moves. 

Since its establishment in 1978 by national coach Nic Jorge, BEST Center continues to produce some of the country’s finest basketball and volleyball players including Chris Tiu, Kiefer Ravena and Princess Gaiser. 

For more information about BEST Center’s classes and tournaments, call the hotlines 411-6260, 3723066 and 372-3065, email bestcentersports@gmail.com or follow its official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/BEST-Center-Sports-Inc/66172039922.

Sprite levels up diskarte with new LeBron’s Mix!

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Coca-Cola brings to the Philippines Sprite LeBron’s Mix, the first-ever, limited edition King James drink so you can have the NBA superstar’s diskarte in you.

The new LeBron’s Mix – a combination of the crisp, refreshing lemon-lime taste of Sprite with the delicious twist of natural cherry and orange flavors. It comes in an eye-catching bold red packaging with LeBron’s initials and his iconic crown, which symbolizes his legendary nickname ‘King James.’

The relationship of Sprite with LeBron began in 2003 before the NBA player started his first professional game. A strong innovator of street culture all over the world, Sprite followed the NBA Finals MVP’s 13-year journey, collaborating with the player for new innovations to offer to the fans.

The new LeBron’s Mix was launched last July 26 at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.

“Sprite is deeply rooted in its intense refreshment. Drinking an ice-cold Sprite clears your mind and helps you make your diskarte. In addition, the brand has always been grounded in the country’s street culture – and there is no better way to bring street culture to life here in the Philippines that with the sport that everyone loves, basketball,” says Stephan Czypionka, Vice President for Marketing of Coca-Cola Philippines.

Jeron Teng

During the launch, media guests, Coca-Cola partners and some sports personalities such as basketball players Jeron Teng, LA Revilla and Karl Kramer were the firsts to experience this whole new level of diskarte as they got to tag along in playing basketball inspired games like the Doble Diskarte and Spot your Diskarte Shot where they were able to win prizes.

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China to host 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup

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(L-R) Chinese delegation, basketball star Yao Ming, Chinese Olympic Committee vice president Gao Zhidan : Vice Mayor of Beijing and China 2019 bid committee chairman Zhang Jiandong; and Philippines’ delegation, president of Philippines Basketball Manuel V Pangilinan; Eight-time world boxing champion Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao; and actor Lou Diamond Phillips during the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup host announcement ceremony in Tokyo on August 7, 2015. (Photo by Toshifumi Kitamura/ AFP)

China wins the bidding war against the Philippines in the final presentations to become the official host of the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, the FIBA Central Board announced Friday, August 7 in Tokyo, Japan.for the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup hosting.

The delegations of the People's Republic of China and of the Republic of the Philippines presented clear impressions that the love of the sport is what drives them to want to host the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

China edged Philippines, which banked on the Filipinos’ passion for the sports and reach on social media in its bid for the hosting, with a presentation focusing on its strength in infrastructure, hosting experience, and resources.

The Chinese have hosted several international tournaments including the 2008 Beijing Olympics, 2010 Asian Games and the 2014 Nanjing Youth Olympics. They will also host the upcoming 2015 Fiba Asia Championships. Last Friday, July 31, China also won the rights to host the 2022 Winter Olympics. 

China also boasted of holding the Fiba World Cup, which is held every four years, in eight keys cities which are easily connected by several forms of modern transportation.

Presenters for the Philippine pitch were business tycoon and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan; Filipino Hollywood actor Lou Diamond Phillips; former national team player Jimmy Alapag; and former national team head coach Chot Reyes.

The Philippine bid highlighted the Southeast Asian nation's deep-rooted love affair with basketball as FIBA's ticket to achieving its goal. It also leverage the country's Internet reach as the Social Media Capital of the world.

Basketball's world governing body made the decision after a stringent process that began right after last year's World Cup in Spain, and culiminated Friday in Tokyo with 20-minute presentations from each country followed by question-and-answer sessions.

Here are some of the strong statements of intent that were made. An evident as the leading figures behind both bids addressed the media, just hours before FIBA's Central Board is set to make its decision.

Yao Ming, China 2019 Ambassador and basketball star (asked to compare, based on his visits to the Philippines, the love of basketball there compared to the love of basketball in China): "You can't say that one type of love is better than the other. Both are great. Both countries have a great passion for basketball, particularly for FIBA basketball."

Manny Pacquiao, Philippines Congressman and eight-time world boxing champion: "I am a boxer but I am here because I love basketball so that tells you the passion that Filipinos have for basketball. If we host the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, we can show that passion to the world."

Zhang Jiandong, Vice Mayor of Beijing and Chairman of the China 2019 bid committee: "At least 300 million people play basketball in China and if we host the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, we can increase that participation. China is the most populous country in the world and we can make basketball the most popular sport in the world. We believe that we can make the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup a complete success because of China's economic stability, strong financial guarantee and the government's complete support. We can make it a safe, most reliable and risk-free event."

Manuel V Pangilinan, President of the Philippines Basketball Association: "In our country, basketball is number one. Ninety percent of the population play, watch or follow the sport in one way or another. It's not just Filipinos in the Philippines that are passionate about the sport. It's Filipinos all over the world. Football may be number one in many places around the world, but basketball is number one in the Philippines."

Gao Zhidan, Vice-President of the Chinese Olympic Committee: "Basketball is very popular in China and if we host the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, we can foresee a great rise in that popularity. This will have a great impact on the professional league (CBA) as well as the university league which is developing very fast. It will help with our aim to train more athletes and get a bigger pool of talented players."

Lou Diamond Phillips, Filipino actor and director: "The Philippines has come of age and we are incredibly hopeful of geting to host the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup. We are the biggest social media country and we already have more than two billion impressions of #PUSO2019."

Source : 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup.