Small Basketeers of the Philippines (SBP) – Passerelle Twin Tournament is now in full swing for its 31st season. Organized by the Basketball Efficiency and Scientific Training (BEST) Center, the prestigious sporting event opened at the Fr. Rafael Cortina Gym in Xavier School, gathering hundreds of eager young athletes, parents and sports enthusiasts.
Leading the opening with BEST Center founder Coach Nic Jorge were Meralco Bolts player Jimmy Alapag and Congressman Mikee Romero, who were in full support of the basketball competition for kids.
“Sports, especially basketball, is a part of every Filipino’s life,” noted Alapag. “With this event, BEST Center provided a great opportunity for these kids to use their youthful energy for something positive, like basketball.”
“SBP is like the big leagues for kids ages 12 and below. So is the Passerelle for those ages 13-15,” remarked sportsman, Cong. Mikee Romero, whose son is also joining the prestigious basketball event for kids. “With this tournament, kids can start developing their skills and values at a young age. Aside from the physical exercise, they can also develop discipline, teamwork, and most especially, sportsmanship.”
“We are proud to organize this competition, and we will continue in doing so with great enthusiasm. With this age group, we are pleased to see young, eager athletes start their passion in sports at such an early age. It’s great that we can contribute to sports development in our country in our own little way. We are already looking forward to what these athletes are capable of doing when they grow up,” said BEST Center founder Coach Nic Jorge.
Sponsored by Milo and in cooperation with Chris Sports, over 600 players from more than 150 schools nationwide are participating in this year’s competition. Aside from the event held in NCR, other elimination games are being held in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao to determine which teams will qualify for the regional championships. The best teams from each region will battle it out at the national finals.
Tentative schedules of the regional playoffs will be October 21-24 in Davao City for Mindanao, November 4-7 in Baguio City for Luzon, and November 18-21 in Roxas City for Visayas.
For more information about BEST Center’s classes and tournaments, call the hotlines 411-6260, 3723066 and 372-3065, email [email protected].