More than 50 teams, the majority from abroad, will compete in the Sinag Liga Asya (SLA) Junior World Showcase Season 3.0, scheduled for July 1-5, 2026, across four venues in Cebu City.
International and Local Participants
International teams traveling to the Queen City of the South come from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States, Canada, and Australia. Local squads hail from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Ormoc, and Panaon, all ready to defend their home turf in what is considered the biggest grassroots basketball event this year.
Venues and Excitement
The competition venues include the New Cebu Coliseum, Cebu City Sports Institute-Sawang Calero, Magnum Sports Complex, and the University of San Carlos (USC) Main Gymnasium. As the date approaches, SLA Chairman Rocky Chan expressed growing excitement.
“It’s going to be a competitive tournament. These grassroots teams are coming not just to play, but to compete,” Chan told Cebu sports media.
Preparation and Determination
Chan noted that participating teams have been preparing for months for this prestigious tournament. “These squads are determined and have prepared rigorously for a tough competition. Every win counts, and they are not coming across the globe just to be beaten by the Philippine teams,” he added.
Local Teams' Chances
Despite the larger number of foreign teams, Chan believes local teams can put up a good fight. He urged Cebuanos to support all local teams, especially those from Cebu. Chan emphasized that admission to the games is free, expressing hope that basketball fans will flock to each venue.
“Expect exciting and physical games from both local and international teams. Admission is free, so we invite everyone to come and enjoy an exciting week of basketball,” Chan said.
Age Categories
The tournament features various age categories: 13-Under (born 2013), 15-Under (born 2011), 17-Under (born 2009), 19-Under (born 2007), and 23-Under (born 2003).
