BALLOUT Hoops Challenge, a league founded by former La Salle Greenhills and Ateneo Lady Blue Eagles basketball coach Cris Bautista, will open its third season on September 1, 9 a.m. at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym in Katipunan, Loyola Heights Quezon City.
The inter-scholastic basketball tournament aims to promote and develop a grassroots basketball program for kids aged 10-and below. Tournament director is PBA superstar Lewis Alfred 'LA' Tenorio of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.
Tenorio, who has played for the Philippines in various international tournaments, is the best example on how a local can make it big in the basketball world. He is best known as one of the standout players from the San Beda high school program and was a vital cog for the Ateneo Blue Eagles in college.
"This is something I have been wanting to do for a long time," said the PBA superstar who is giving back through basketball clinics and tournaments.
The tournament serves as a new opportunity for talented young kids who are looking for proper exposure while at the same time building new ties with fellow players representing different teams.
"We noticed that basketball players aged 10-and below have been left behind. With most leagues focusing on different and higher age groups, we feel that this tournament can set the bar and guide them to a better basketball future," said coach Bautista.
The BALLOUT Hoops Challenge tournament will follow an NBA-like format. There will be four divisions (East, West, North, and South) which will have their own deputy commissioner. Each division will crown a champion which will then advance to a single-round format to determine who the grand champion.
For inquiries, contact Cris Bautista at (0917) 6480803.