By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Two Negrense basketball coaches from SBP Zone 7 became part of the first batch of participants in the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’ (SBP) Pilot Coaches Development Program held in Metro Manila from May 9 to 10.

Mark Jomalesa and John Imperio represented Zone 7 in the initiative aimed at improving grassroots coaching and strengthening basketball development nationwide.

The program is headed by veteran mentor and current NLEX Road Warriors head coach Jong Uichico, who emphasized the importance of teaching fundamentals and prioritizing player growth over winning.

The two-day training combined classroom lectures and on-court sessions focused on teaching methods, player development, coaching behavior, communication, practice management, and creating a safe learning environment for athletes.

One of the major points highlighted during the sessions was the use of small-sided games, which Uichico described as an effective way for players to develop decision-making skills and gain experience in game situations.

Participants also attended online theoretical discussions before the face-to-face sessions to maximize learning during the Manila camp.

Joining Uichico as lecturers were basketball educators Russell Raypon and Kalvin Kiel Sangalang, who both shared insights on coaching systems and athlete development.

The initiative forms part of SBP’s broader effort to expand basketball programs outside Metro Manila and strengthen coaching networks in provincial and regional areas.

SBP leaders, including President Ricky Vargas and Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, continue to push for wider access to training and development opportunities across the country, recognizing the role of coaches in building future players and programs.

Under the leadership of executive director Erika Caitlin Dy, the federation aims to establish long-term grassroots systems by investing in local coaching education.

After completing the program, participating coaches are expected to share their learnings in their respective communities through local clinics and mentoring activities.

Zone 7 Director Tony Agustin welcomed the opportunity, saying the program would greatly benefit coaches and young athletes in their region.

“This is more than just an invitation — it is a recognition of the potential of our region and the importance of developing our coaches,” Agustin said.

He added that the knowledge gained by the participants would eventually help strengthen basketball programs in local communities./ASC, WDJ