SHABA opens Sunday

CEBU, Philippines - A total of 12 teams have confirmed to see action in the 15th season of the Sacred Heart Alumni Basketball Association (SHABA), which will open on Sunday, at the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu gym along Gen. Maxilom Avenue, this city.

 The elimination round with follow a single round robbing format.

The teams are Gaisano Capital, JAPFA, Mobelhaus, Goldberry Suites/Uratex Foam, Nature’s Spring 03&04), San Remigio Beach Club, Marcelino Co, A+Structures, White Gold Club, Gaisano Capital Saver’s Shell and RDAK/Edcon Glass, the team of SHABA president Regan Rex King.

Games will be played every Thursday and Sunday. All 12 teams good for six pairs will play every playing date using the three courts in intervals.

King said they are requesting all SHABA members to witness the opening game and if possible, they should be present in all succeeding games to throw their support. He said they are planning to invite the presence of the more popular Sacred Heart products like Padim Israel, a former PBA player and Joel Co, once a PBL standout drafted by Purefoods in the PBA but opted to play for Magnolia Ice Cream in the PBL which he helped become champion.

Only eight teams will advance to the quarterfinals and four of them will have the twice-to-beat advantage from the other four lower ranking teams. – THE FREEMAN