EASL Future Champions Program Launches in Cebu
Approximately 50 young students enthusiastically participated in the East Asia Super League (EASL) Future Champions training camp held at the historic Cebu Coliseum on Friday, November 14, 2025. The event marked a significant step in developing basketball talent in the Central Visayas region, bringing together male and female students from Abellana National School and Inayawan National High School for a day of professional basketball instruction.
Skills Development and Competitive Play
Under the guidance of both international and local coaches, the participants received comprehensive training in fundamental basketball techniques. Each student was provided with free jerseys as they learned essential skills including proper dribbling form, accurate passing methods, and effective shooting techniques. Following the intensive skills session, the camp immediately transitioned into a live scrimmage where every participant had the opportunity to apply their newly acquired knowledge in game situations, ensuring practical experience complemented theoretical learning.
Long-Term Vision for Cebuano Basketball
Dr. Rhoel Dejaño, Chairman of the Cebu City Sports Commission (CCSC), expressed profound gratitude to the EASL for selecting Cebu City as a program site. He emphasized the importance of continuity in such initiatives, stating he had specifically requested the program not be limited to just one or two days. Fortunately, Dr. Dejaño discovered that the EASL has much broader plans, revealing that this is actually a 3-4 year development program designed to nurture young talents systematically.
The comprehensive program extends beyond player development to include coaching education. International coaches will be brought to Cebu to train local coaches, creating a sustainable ecosystem for basketball development. Dr. Dejaño further confirmed that the EASL has committed to returning to Cebu, having recognized the exceptional potential of Cebuano athletes in basketball and the region's passion for the sport.
