Ilongga Perez, Negrense Daja earn ‘The One’ qualification

MANILA – Ilongga Rhiane Perez and Negrense Bonn Daja booked their tickets to New York after ruling the Manila qualifiers of The One global basketball tournament hosted by Jordan Brand recently at the Flight Deck in Taguig City.

Perez, a standout from the UST Junior Growling Tigresses, made quick work of DAYO23 one-on-one champion Mako Namiki in the girls’ finals.

The Iloilo-born guard delivered a flawless 11-0 shutout in just 1 minute and 55 seconds, leaving no doubt about her dominance.

Meanwhile, Daja showcased his size and composure in the boys’ finals, cruising past Jose Marie Mabang with a 13-3 win.

The 6-foot-4 De La Salle Zobel product credited his height and winning mindset for the convincing victory.

“Ang advantage ko po talaga ay ‘yung height ko at ‘yung mentality ko po na gusto ko talaga manalo. I want to go to New York po talaga,” said Daja.

Both Perez and Daja took home ₱20,000 in prize money and, more importantly, earned the right to represent the Philippines at The One Global Finals this August in New York.

They will go head-to-head with top one-on-one players from over 15 major cities around the world, including Chicago, Paris, Belgrade, Hong Kong, and Tokyo.

Nike’s Country Marketing Head emphasized that the event reflected the skills and competitive spirit of Filipino youth in the basketball scene.

“These winners embody ‘The One’ mentality, and we’re thrilled to support them as they continue their journey to chase greatness in New York. We’re all eager to see them bring the Pinoy brand of basketball to the global stage,” he added./PN