Tropang Ballers gear up for bigger, better season

CEBU, Philippines — Everything is already in place for a bigger, grander and more exciting seventh season of the Tropang Ballers League set to take off on October 13 at the Cebu City Sports Institute in Barangay Sawang Calero, Cebu City.

Founded by Harrison Go in 2016, TBL is organized to bring out holistic improvements to basketball enthusiasts of all ages, and  to inculcate the values of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and to boost self-esteem among its members.

“Most importantly, this open-for-all league is geared towards the ‘healthy life, wealthy life movement’ especially focused on the youth, for them to keep away from bad companies, vices and influences,” said Go, who has partnered with Raul Nino La Rosa Jr. in running the league this year.

Drawing only seven entries during its maiden season four years ago at the Alta Vista Golf and Country Club, the Tropang Ballers have grown substantially in terms of scope and participants.

For this season, a total of 14 teams will be seeing action.

These are Meztizo, MJE, Marshmallows, Goaldiggers, SDA, Ombra Designs+Build, Penthel, Yoyi’s Pastries and Desserts, Dimsum Factory Cebu, A & R Freelancing, Thurblazers Ball Club, San Remigio Properties, Gonzales Goldsmith, and Lauron Refrigeration and Airconditioning.

They are divided into two brackets that will play in a single round robin format. The top four per bracket will progress into the crossover quarterfinals. The winners will advance to the semifinal round. The last two teams standing will fight it out for the championship.

Aside from trophies, the champion will pocket P20,000 plus one lechon and an island hopping package, while the second and third placers will receive P15,000 and P10,000, respectively.

The individual awardees such as the MVP and the Mythical Five will also get cash incentives.

More than playing hoops though, Go said whatever funds they generated out of their tournament will go to TBL Cares, their community outreach program for indigent children in a barangay of their choice.

“Through this league, we really want to help others especially those who are in need,” said Go. (FREEMAN)