MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Schools Athletic Association (PSAA) Season 3 basketball tournament tips off this Sunday at the Makati City Coliseum, bringing together top high school teams from across the country for a showcase of young talent.
A total of 12 teams will compete in the Under 18 division, while 11 teams will see action in the Under 16 category and six squads will battle it out in the Under 14 bracket for Season 3.
The PSAA aims to give exposure to schools that are not members of the major collegiate leagues in the Philippines, providing a platform for young athletes to compete at a high level.
PSAA president and founder Fernando Arimando said the league serves as an eye opener for coaches and players alike, with games being broadcast live across multiple age divisions. He emphasized that the tournament also serves as a pre-season preparation for teams that have their own mother leagues.
Teams have been ramping up their preparations for the upcoming season, focusing on competitive play, camaraderie, and chemistry on the hardwood. Coaches from various schools including De La Salle Dasmarinas University, San Felipe Neri Catholic School, San Sebastian College Recolectos, and Chiang Kai Shek College have expressed their commitment to bringing out the best in their players.
Beyond basketball, the PSAA Season 3 will also introduce volleyball and esports to the competition. The Game of the Generals, a Pinoy-made digital board game developed in cooperation with the Department of Science and Technology, will be featured as part of the esports program under the Esports World Federation.
Champions of the basketball tournament will also earn the opportunity to participate in a foreign training camp in New Zealand, adding extra incentive for teams to give their all on the court.
Games will be available for viewing on the PSAA Facebook and YouTube channels, as well as on Pinoy Extreme Cable channel.
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