Mentored by Philippine Youth team coach Johnny Tam, the National Pool A is considered among the favorites in the six-team field entered in the tournament conceptualized by cage patron and FedEx chair Bert Lina for players who are 18 years old and below and are six feet and above.
Though he believes he has a strong team, Tam said the field is just about even because of the ruling that all 12 players must be fielded each game.
Starting for Tam are 6-foot-5 Michael Galinato of Mapua, Melchor Cule, a 6-3 discovery from the Australia Institute of Sports, and 2002 RP Youth members Jonathan Fernandez (6-2) of National University, Hermes Sumalinog (6-2) of Mapua and Kevin Astorga (6-3) of the International School.
Completing the lineup are PCCr’s Edwin Osoro (6-3), Ryan Ilad (6-4), Albert Regala (6-1) and Christopher Catamora (6-1), UE’s Maui Pradas (6-1) and UPHR’s Ryan Facundo (6-5) and Dryl Mendoza (6-3).
Assisting Tam are former pro Harmon Codiñera and Britt Reroma.