Phl 13-U tunes up for international meets

MANILA, Philippines - The Phl 13-Under team is competing in tune-up tournaments as part of its buildup for international tournaments abroad in line with the grassroots development program of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

National coach Mark Herrera said the team, composed of outstanding players from schools in Metro Manila, is joining the  RAV5 basketball tournament, one of several competitions lined up by the SBP under president Manny Pangilinan and vice chairman Ricky Vargas.

“We are joining as guest team to enhance the skills of our young players and develop their character as we prepare for our international tournaments in November and December this year,” said Herrera, who also coached the Junior Talk N Text team to five championships in the Batang PBA summer tournament, now known as the Coke-PBA Youngstars.

The team includes Kenji Roman, Karl Bautista, Red Felicidario, Fort Dazo, JC Baltazar, Sethe Sim, Kean Herrera, Janray Retuyan, Pawan Singh, John Balmores, Elijan Clariño and Prince Constantino.

Assistant coaches are Benjie Diswe and Albert Reyes. The team is also supported by SBP executive director Sonny Barrios and deputy director Bernie Atienza, AMA University and Johnny Rockets.