The vibrant city of Cebu is set to become the epicenter of international grassroots basketball as it hosts the Sinag Liga Asia (SLA) Junior World Showcase from July 1 to 5, 2026. Basketball fans across the region will witness a high-caliber competition at various venues, with the Cebu Coliseum kicking off the premier day of the event.
A Global Gathering of Youth Talent
Approximately 50 teams from diverse countries worldwide are expected to participate in this prestigious tournament. The competition was officially launched on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, during a press conference held at Treewoods Residences in Barangay Apas, Cebu City. SLA Chairman Rocky Chan, a well-known figure in the Philippine regional basketball scene, announced that out of the 50 slots reserved for the competition, only four remain vacant at this point.
Significant Growth in Participation
Chan highlighted that the number of participating teams represents a substantial increase compared to previous editions. The inaugural event in 2024, held in Pampanga, Luzon, attracted 24 teams. In 2025, the competition moved to Cagayan de Oro City in Mindanao, drawing 35 teams. This year's edition in Visayas marks a significant expansion, with confirmed teams from the United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Dubai, Australia, and various European nations.
The tournament is divided into multiple age categories to cater to young athletes: 13-under, 15-under, 17-under, 19-under, and 23-under. This structure ensures a competitive and inclusive environment for players at different stages of development.
Venues and Collaborative Efforts
In addition to the Cebu Coliseum, other venues under consideration for the Cebu edition include the Mandaue City Sports Complex, Magnum Sports Complex, and the Cebu City Sports Institute in Barangay Sawang Calero. Chan emphasized that SLA has partnered with the Department of Tourism, as well as local government units in Cebu City and Mandaue City, to facilitate the event.
The competition has received support from Senator Bong Go and the Philippine Sports Commission since its inception. "We're expecting more than a thousand delegates from different countries. This is about promoting both sports and tourism," Chan explained, underscoring the dual goals of the showcase.
This event not only highlights the growing popularity of basketball in the Philippines but also positions Cebu as a key destination for international sports tourism. With its blend of competitive spirit and cultural exchange, the Sinag Liga Asia Junior World Showcase promises to be a landmark occasion for youth sports in the region.
