The All-Filipino basketball competition brought together Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) teams from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain for an exciting two-day event. Kicking off on November 22, 2024, the tournament was honoured by the presence of Philippine Ambassador to Bahrain Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis.
The Muharaqq Sports Club was jam-packed with fans and enthusiasts of the sport, which created an electric atmosphere. Participants showed their skills, camaraderie, and love for the sport as one way of rejoicing in Filipino culture and community spirit in the region.
16U Championship highlights
In the 16U final, Abu Dhabi Mowen clashed with Dubai Jazzville in a closely contested match that kept the audience on their toes. The game seesawed between narrow leads, with no team able to gain a broad margin; the difference remained within seven points. The peak of excitement in the match was attained by going into overtime and by a dramatic finish. Finally, the winning point went to Abu Dhabi Mowen: 79-78 as they celebrated resilience and skill.
14U Championship recap
Dubai Jazzville emerged as champions in the 14U category, claiming the title by beating Qatar Junior Falcons convincingly 89-77. The star player of the team, guard #15 Evangelista, was a vital part of the victory, not only leading his team to victory but also winning the Finals and Tournament MVP awards with his stunning performance throughout the competition.
All star peformers
The tournament further underlined the brilliant skill of Abu Dhabi Mowen’s point guard #1 Monghit, who made it back-to-back as the 16U Finals and Tournament MVP. Nothing short of spectacular, the performance showed he had both the technical and soft skills to lead his team out of tough situations. The Accolades like these justify his merit for being steadily good, which further cements his name in the Inter-GCC tournaments.
Teams participated
Teams who took part in the competition were Qatar Junior Falcons, Abu Dhabi Mowen, Dubai Jazzville, NGB Saudi Team and Verminex Bahrain Eagles Team.
Organized by the Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas, this year’s event was graced with the support of its sponsors, Verminex Pest Control Experts Bahrain, JG Interiors & Design Studio, and Lolo’s Kitchens, thus setting up a truly vibrant and friendly environment of both sportsmanship and healthy competition.
This annual event is a yearly showcase of Filipino basketball skills in the region and unites them under one umbrella of brotherhood and sportsmanship.
A competition indeed, but also an excellent venue for friends to gather around and bond while aspiring to be champions in various competitions that unfolded with the event. Besides promoting an athletic contest, this helped in solidifying and knitting the Filipino expat community further through the GCC region.
