MANILA – TJ7 Basketball Development Center took part in the Sharjah International Youth Basketball Tournament Season 6, an under-16 competition that brings together 14 teams from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia in Khorfakkan, United Arab Emirates.
The Philippines will be represented by two teams in the tournament—St. Stephens and Negros-based TJ7 Basketball Development Center—against squads from Spain, France, Russia, India, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, which will field five teams.
The event is organized by JAM Sports Academy and is regarded as one of the region’s premier youth basketball tournaments.
TJ7’s roster is composed of James Garcia, Shane Dilag, Luis Tamayo IV, Liam Lopez, Luigi Lopez, Uriel Alejandro, Alley John Mamon, and Mikhael Mamon, with Mark Belangel serving as head coach.
Belangel said the primary goal of joining the tournament is long-term development rather than immediate results, stressing the importance of competing against international opposition at a young age.
“Our objective is to get more international experience and maximize their potential,” Belangel said.
Tournament organizers have coordinated closely with participating teams ahead of their arrival in Khorfakkan, providing schedules and logistical support to ensure a smooth competition.
The event is expected to give young players valuable exposure to different styles of play while allowing them to gain experience in a highly competitive international setting./PN
