The biggest amateur basketball try-outs in the country kicked off last Thursday (June 22) and Friday (June 23), as Global Hoops 2017 opened its doors to the unsung heroes of the local hardwood.
Fittingly held at the Philippines’ own “Rucker Park-like” mecca, Titan Love Court in Bonifacio Global City, the open invitation challenged up-and-coming ballers to strut their stuff and get a chance to don the Philippine colors in international competition at the Jump 10 World Hoops Challenge in Shanghai, China this coming August.
Despite the rains on Day 1, over 200 hopeful participants from both the metro and nearby provinces flocked to the venue and brought their respective A-games.
Players were grouped into several teams and engaged in a series of good old fashioned pick up games, to test their skills, basketball IQ and overall feel for the game.
Highlights were aplenty during the two-day exhibition, as players showcased jaw-dropping crossovers, fancy no-look passes and even some gravity-defying acts of pure athleticism.
Among those in attendance to watch the talented pool of amateur players was former San Beda Red Lion and current Titan Basketball Operations Manager & Court Director of Titan Love Court, Sudan Daniel.
The former NCAA Most Valuable player lauded Global Hoops’ initiative to send amateur ballers to an international competition, instead of relying on the pros.
“Not only is that more pressure for the professional players, but also more limelight for the enthusiasts,” he told InqPOP!
“Guys that know they can play at that level but haven’t really got that opportunity. One thing you look around in the whole Philippines is the lack of opportunity for a lot of locals,” he explained. “With Global Hoops as well as Jump 10 coming to bring this to the Philippines, I mean Pinoy na ako, so I’m just so happy that they were able to do things for our people.”
Having played in the highest level of collegiate basketball in the Philippines, the towering athlete-turned-coach also send out a message for those lucky enough to represent the country.
“Show that love for the Filipino. Bring the Philippines with you wherever you go,” he said. “Represent. Because at the end of the day, you are gonna be representing this whole country. Just know that we’re supporting you and we got your back. Just show that love for the game.”
Meanwhile, only seven players from the talented pool of amateurs will be chosen as the Philippine representatives for the Jump 10 World Hoops Challenge.
Winners will be personally contacted by Global Hoops officials, while the full results will be posted on Global Hoops Manila’s social media accounts.
Now on its second year, Jump 10 World Hoops Challenge pits talented players from all over the globe who failed or have yet to reach the pros.