Cebu City to Host First Major International Youth Basketball Tournament in July 2026
For the first time in its history, Cebu City has been selected to host a significant international basketball tournament dedicated to young players. The Sinag Liga Asya (SLA) Junior World Showcase is scheduled to take place from July 1 to 5, 2026, across various venues in Metro Cebu. This event marks a pivotal moment for the city, aiming to elevate the skills and exposure of aspiring basketball talents through competitive matches against international teams.
Official Announcement and Key Supporters
The tournament was formally unveiled during a press conference led by league chairman Rocky Chan, who was joined by former PBA player EJ Feihl and veteran organizer Rey Alao. Adding star power to the announcement, Cebuano basketball icon Dondon Hontiveros attended the event, expressing his strong support for the league's initiatives. From the education sector, University of Cebu chairman Augusto Go highlighted the potential of the tournament to significantly boost sports tourism in Cebu, emphasizing its economic and cultural benefits.
Rocky Chan brings a wealth of experience to the organization, having previously coordinated the VisMin Super Cup during the pandemic and introduced the Pilipinas Super League to Cebu to spotlight young Filipino talent. The SLA initially launched its season in Pampanga, with last year's edition hosted in Cagayan de Oro, making Cebu City the latest and most prominent venue for this growing event.
Tournament Details and Global Participation
Organizers anticipate the participation of over 50 teams from around the globe, including squads from the United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, and Australia. The tournament will feature five age divisions: 13-under, 15-under, 17-under, 19-under, and 23-under. Additionally, there is a possibility of adding a girls' 17-under division if sufficient teams register, ensuring inclusivity and broader engagement.
The opening games are set to be held at the historic Cebu Coliseum, with other potential venues including the Mandaue City Sports Complex, Magnum Sports Complex, and Cebu City Sports Institute. This multi-venue approach aims to accommodate the large number of participants and spectators expected to attend.
Collaborative Efforts and Strategic Importance
The league is collaborating closely with the Department of Tourism and local governments to promote Cebu as a premier sports tourism destination. Support for the event also extends to national figures, with backing from Senator Bong Go and the Philippine Sports Commission, underscoring its significance at both local and national levels.
League officials have emphasized that Cebu is an ideal host due to its rich basketball culture and history of producing top-tier players. The primary objective of the SLA Junior World Showcase is to provide young athletes, particularly those outside major Manila-based leagues, with a platform to showcase their talents and gain recognition from larger teams and scouts.
The 23-under division is expected to be highly competitive, featuring strong foreign players and Fil-foreign athletes, while the younger divisions will offer a glimpse into the future of basketball talent. This event not only fosters athletic development but also strengthens Cebu's position as a hub for international sports events, contributing to community pride and economic growth through increased tourism and local engagement.
