The core of the team may be built around the reigning champion Saint Clare College of Caloocan Saints.
IN A recent article, National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAASCU) President Dr. Ernesto Jay Adalem offered to send a league selection to represent the Philippines at the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Burma (Myanmar) this December. He believes that the plan to send PBA all-stars is an overkill and that a collegiate selection would be enough to win the gold medal.
No doubt, there are enough talented players in the NAASCU who are worthy to don the national colors. For starters, expect a young team with no player older than 24 who are hungry and eager to make a name.
The team is expected to be built around the core of the reigning Seniors Division champion Saint Clare College of Caloocan Saints. Coach of the Year Jino Manansala is the frontrunner for the head coaching post.
Because of their breakthrough championship in 2012, several members of the Saints were noticed and accepted offers to play in the PBA Developmental League in the offseason. Top rebounder Jam Jamito signed with the Cagayan Valley Rising Suns and assists leader Marte Gil and center Dennis Santos latched with the Jumbo Plastic Giants.
Another possible addition is Saints transferee Jayson Ibay, who used to play for the University of Manila Hawks. The 6’3” forward last played for the Informatics Icons in the D-League.
Aside from the Saints, NAASCU is well represented in the D-League by members of the runner-up Centro Escolar Scorpions who see action for the Café France Bakers. The school and restaurant have long partnered over several conferences to expose the Scorpions to tougher competition.
Coach Edgar Macaraya nominated center-forwards Alfred Batino and JP Magbitang and point guard Alvin Abundo. The three are all eligible for this coming season.
The Our Lady of Fatima Phoenix have potential candidates in guard Dexter Rosales and shooters Romyl Jornacion and Paul Pineda and former Juniors Division MVP AJ Perea. Coach Ralph Emerson Rivera also recommended 6’3” wingman Joseph Marquez.
Meanwhile, the New Era University Hunters and the City University of Pasay Eagles could be allowed one player slot each so that all members will have representation.
Despite maxing out their eligibility, former Most Valuable Players Jeff Alvin Viernes and Eugene Torres of the Saints may be included in the roster. Other recent alumni and players from schools that went on a leave of absence may also be considered like MacLean Sabellina and Cedric Ablaza of the STI College Olympians.
Since the SEA Games will be later in the year, a lot of interesting prospects may be unearthed from the three new NAASCU members. The Rizal Technological University Blue Thunder, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Mighty Maroons and Olivarez College Sea Lions are champion teams from their previous leagues so they can definitely contribute a player or two each.
Men’s Basketball has been the Philippines’ private preserve since joining the SEA Games. The only time the country failed to win the gold was in 1989.
Of course, the NAASCU selection cannot go to Burma overconfident. As evidenced by recent competitions, the level of Southeast Asian basketball has improved hence the days of 50-point winning margins are long gone so preparation is crucial.
Should the plan push through, the nation should cheer as one. These young men will not be representing their schools or their league but the whole Philippines!
Servinio's Sports Etc. 