The 2024 National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) National Finals is set to take center stage at the Mall of Asia Arena from March 18 to 24, featuring a lineup of talented high school basketball players from across the country. Among the standout athletes gearing up for the competition is Sacred Heart School (SHS)-Ateneo de Cebu’s very own Jared Bahay, a dynamic point guard with a relentless drive to succeed.
After a tough loss to the Nazareth-NU Bullpups in the Division 1 semis, Bahay is determined to lead his team to victory in this year’s NBTC National Finals. Expressing his motivation for the upcoming tournament, Bahay stated, “I am more motivated that Ateneo de Cebu has another chance of redeeming itself this year, so we’re all motivated to win this.”
In a surprising turn of events, Bahay revealed that he has been training with the Ateneo Blue Eagles men’s basketball team, signaling a shift from his initial commitment to the UP Fighting Maroons. Despite the change in plans, Bahay remains optimistic about his future with Ateneo, citing Coach Tab Baldwin’s mentorship and the program’s strong foundation as key factors in his decision.
Joining Bahay in the spotlight is Kieffer Alas of the La Salle-Zobel Junior Archers, who earned a spot in the UAAP Season 86 juniors’ mythical five. Alas, a standout player with a strong basketball pedigree, is poised to make a significant impact in this year’s NBTC National Finals.
A total of 32 teams, including powerhouse squads like NSNU, Adamson, San Sebastian, and Mapua, will compete for the coveted NBTC title. The tournament will feature a mix of regional teams, wildcard entries, and overseas-based squads, promising an action-packed week of high-stakes basketball.
The competition will kick off on March 18, with teams battling for their placement in Division 1 and Division 2. The knockout phase will commence on March 20, leading up to the Division 1 and 2 championship games on March 24. Additionally, the NBTC All-Star Game on March 23 will showcase the talents of Bahay and Alas, highlighting the best young players in the country.
In addition to the on-court action, the NBTC National Finals will feature a coaches convention and the inaugural Manila Live competitions, including a girls’ tournament and various boys’ age group competitions. The event aims to celebrate the future of Philippine basketball and provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills on a national stage.
As the NBTC National Finals approach, anticipation is high for an exhilarating showcase of talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship. With players like Jared Bahay and Kieffer Alas leading the charge, the stage is set for a thrilling display of high school basketball at its finest. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from this exciting event.
