By ADRIAN STEWART CO

TJ7 Basketball Development Center is set to represent the Philippines in the Sharjah International Youth Basketball Tournament Season 6, an under-16 competition featuring 14 teams from across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

The international tournament, organized by JAM Sports Academy, will be held in Khorfakkan, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

It formally opened on Saturday, December 27, with a mandatory opening ceremony and parade walk for all participating teams.

The field includes teams from Spain, France, Russia, India, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, which will be represented by five teams.

The Philippines will field two squads in the tournament — St. Stephens and TJ7 Basketball Development Center.

The Negros-based TJ7 will be bannered by James Garcia, Shane Dilag, Luis Tamayo IV, Liam Lopez, Luigi Lopez, Uriel Alejandro, Alley John Mamon, and Mikhael Mamon.

The team will be coached by former collegiate standout Mark Belangel.

Belangel said the tournament is a valuable opportunity for the young players to test themselves against international competition.

“Our objective is to get more international experience and maximize their potential,” Belangel said.

The Sharjah International Youth Basketball Tournament has become a regular destination for youth teams seeking overseas exposure, offering a platform for player development through competition against diverse playing styles and high-level opposition./ASC, WDJ