Stars of the hoops

Young people who involve themselves in sports inevitably learn about camaraderie, teamwork and positive attitude. These qualities will allow them to be a star in their own respective sport of choice.

This year’s Junior NBA Philippines, presented by Alaska and supported by Rexona and Master, recently concluded at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. It featured the announcement of the 2013 Junior NBA Philippines All-Star Team and the first-ever Junior NBA Alumni All-Star Game.

Guests and participants at the event were welcomed by NBA Asia vice president for business development and marketing partnership Francesco Suarez, senior director of basketball operations Sefu Bernard and marketing partnerships manager Yoki Chan.  NBA legend Muggsy Bogues flew in to Manila to help coaches train the participants during the National Training Camp.

Making it to this year’s 10-member Junior NBA All-Star Team were Sam Abuhijleh, Vince Ferrer, Miguel Fortuna, Gian Mamuyac, Ricci Rivero, Marco Sario, Pawandeep Singh, Anthony Sistoza, Mahlony Tarranza and Tyler Tio. Meanwhile, Raymond Mercader was named 2013 Junior NBA Coach of the Year.

Rexona and Master’s participation provided the players with a program that is not only focused on skills and discipline, but also on having their confidence and winning look before and after each game. The two brands gave the Sportsmanship Award to the outstanding player who exemplified the four core “S.T.A.R.” qualities — sportsmanship, teamwork, positive attitude and respect.

During the event, Rexona and Master also hosted the Face-Off Challenge that showcased the young players’ basketball skills, confidence and teamwork as the 2013 Junior NBA participants went head to head with the Junior NBA Alumni on a series of tests. An exhibition game was participated by the Junior NBA All-Star Alumni.

(For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/RexonaMen and www.Facebook.com/MasterPhilippines.)