In a thrilling display of talent and determination, the Red Bull Half Court Cebu Qualifiers concluded with University of San Jose Recoletos (USJR) emerging as champions for the 3-on-3 men’s division and Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) Ormoc for the women’s division.
The event, set in Sisters of Mary in Talisay City, Cebu, witnessed rustic yet electrifying plays, clutch buzzer-beaters, and jaw-dropping crossovers, captivating spectators with the raw talent displayed amidst the simplicity of the school grounds.
The competition was fierce, with teams giving their all on the court, demonstrating skill, agility, and passion for the game. Amidst the intense battles, USJR, EVSU Ormoc, and Daily Grind Family (DGFAM) stood out, displaying exceptional teamwork and skill earning them a spot in the National Final next month.
“Securing our second consecutive victory in the women’s division basketball tournament here in Cebu underscores the undeniable power of teamwork. Our back-to-back wins highlight the cohesion and synergy within our team, proving that together, we are unstoppable on the court,” expressed by EVSU Ormoc the Back-to-back champion for Red Bull Half Court Cebu Qualifiers Women’s Division.
USJR, champions of the Red Bull Half Court Cebu Qualifiers Men’s Division, expressed their surprise at their victory, having not anticipated overcoming the competition from numerous athletes in Cebu
“We never expected to triumph over the sixty-plus dedicated and hard-working teams competing in the Regional qualifiers. Our victory serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work, and we extend our encouragement to all basketball enthusiasts in Cebu to join us in the Red Bull Half Court competition, reminding them never to lose hope and to keep striving for success on the court,” they stated.
With their triumph in Cebu, both teams together with the men’s runner up team, Daily Grind Family (DGFAM), now advance to the National Final, where they will go head to head against other teams from Davao and Manila qualifiers, alongside wildcard teams, many consisting of professional players, to elevate the intensity of the competition.
The stakes are high as they compete for a coveted spot in the Red Bull Half Court World Final, set to take place in the basketball mecca of New York City.
“By coming up with this type of event, we’re giving Cebuanos the opportunity to try other basketball games. Witnessing the overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm at the Cebu Qualifiers fills me with immense joy. It’s truly heartening to see numerous athletes and teams not only participating but also expressing keen interest in 3-by-3,” stated tournament Director, Coach Eric Altamirano.
As USJR, EVSU Ormoc, and DGFAM prepare to take on the national stage, they carry the hopes and support of Cebu’s basketball community. Stay tuned for the next leg of Red Bull Half Court in Davao this April 6 and Manila this April 13.