By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Iloilo City Basketball Club (ICBC) annual basketball tournament officially began its first conference of the year held at the Monterosa Subdivision basketball gym, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, last March 4, 2023.
From only seven participating teams last conference, one of the fast-emerging basketball leagues in Iloilo City now added eight new squads that will vie for the first-ever championship crown of the year.
Founded and headed by one of the most renowned basketball players in the City of Love, Mr. Peter Oñate, he established the ICBC basketball tournament aiming for it to become an avenue for non-commercial Ilonggo hoopers where they can enjoy the game that they love.
The program started with the presentation of teams and remarks from Mr. John Jesner Punsaran, the President of Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines Iloilo Chapter on behalf of Cong. Jamjam Baronda.
“I am extremely happy and excited at the same time for this year’s Iloilo City Basketball Club first conference. We are looking forward to this opportunity to host the said basketball league with a total number of 13 teams participating to develop their talent and skills in the game of basketball,” said Mr. Kris Noel Adricula, the current president of the ICBC.
After the short opening program, a double-header matchup immediately highlighted the first day with team Dois Seafood’/Its RELX Iloilo going up against Medal Sportswear while Franz Batchoy clashed with team LTC Fruits and Vegetables.
Ilonggo hoops enthusiasts and fans were entertained in the very first game as team Dois took down Medal, 94-83.
Tristan Flores was named the B Lifestyle Best Player of the Game after heating up early for team Dois to finish with 23 big points.
In the last game of the day, Franz Batchoy cruised their way to a 95-76 victory over team LTC Fruits and Vegetables.
Franz Batchoy got a huge lift from Ydol Lastimado who dropped 21 points and was named as the Best Player of the Game.
“All of this will never be possible without the help of our following Major sponsors, B Lifestyle complex, Selecta, and Medal Sportswear Advertising. Thank you so much,” added Mr. Adricula.
