NBTC focuses on programs for coaches, jr. cagers

MANILA, Philippines – The National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) is entering its eighth year with bigger plans and programs aimed at benefiting not only the young players but also the coaches nationwide.

Eric Altamirano, NBTC national program director, bared their plans during yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate together with multi-titled coach Ato Badolato, collegiate standout Mike Tolomia and SM Lifestyle Entertainment Inc. sports development program head CJ Suarez.

“Our main objective is to develop skills, build character and raise leaders among the players, and educate the coaches on the proper way of teaching and coaching their players or even how to deal with the referees,” said Altamirano, head coach of the NU Bulldogs in the UAAP.

“The NBTC represents a nationwide grassroots program for male high school players. We also hold workshops, conduct high-level tournaments and coaches’ convention. We mentor the coaches,” added Altamirano, also a champion coach in the PBA.

In February, the NBTC will hold the regional championships among teams from the different clusters in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The top 24 teams will advance to the National Championship.

Badolato said the national event will take place March 13-17 at the Mall of Asia Arena. In last year’s final, Sacred Heart of Cebu stunned San Beda.

An All-Star game among the country’s top high school players is also in the drawing board, and Badolato, who steered San Beda to countless titles in the NCAA high school division, in charge of the selection.

“We will hold formal tryouts late February. We will gather 12 teams, including one team from Canada and one from Thailand,” said Badolato.

Tolomia, who played a major role in FEU’s title win over Santo Tomas in the 2015 UAAP season, serves as an inspiration to players coming out of the NBTC program.

Suarez, the former World Cup bowling champion, said the SM Group, through SMLEI, is fully behind the NBTC program by providing financial support.

“We are here to help increase the awareness for NBTC. We are looking forward to more years supporting the NBTC. Hopefully we can have the National Finals aired on TV,” said Suarez, who was joined by SMLEI advertising manager Stephanie Henares.