To open the National Basketball Training Center 2017-18 calendar, the program that focuses on developing grassroots basketball in the Philippines gathered over 1,500 coaches for a three-day seminar and workshop are taught and given access to the latest technologies in the sport of basketball.
“We at the SBP (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas) are happy to partner with the NBTC. They have helped us in having a grassroots program for local coaches,” said SBP executive director Sonny Barrios.
“Not many coaches can get to fly abroad to learn first-hand from the top minds in the world,” added SM NBTC director Eric Altamirano. “Because of technology, coaches can now watch videos online. First hand experience where you are engaged with the teacher is invaluable experience.”
With the goal of sharing the latest trends in world basketball, the NBTC invited Australian tactician Brett Coxsedge.
“Australia has been at the forefront in sports technology. We are honored to have him here,” shared Altamirano.
Imparting their knowledge in the three-day workshop are Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes, Ateneo Blue Eagles mentor Tab Baldwin, and Alab Pilipinas coach Jimmy Alapag.
“Throughout the years, we noticed the growth in the coaches. Before, coaches from the provinces teach in a ‘bara-bara’ style but it is different now. The approach is different not only Xs and Os but also how they mentor the players,” remarked Altamirano, “Outside the usual big cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, we’ve seen the improvement of Olongapo and Cagayan de Oro to name a few. In the long run, this can only be good for the game.”
For the first time, the convention will also talk about basketball analytics with Alaska assistant coach Paolo Layug being the speaker. Also invited to speak are Quinito Henson, 360 Circuit Training founder Chappy Callanta, and Ateneo de Davao athletic director Noli Ayo.
The NBTC is sponsored by SM and the MVP Sports Foundation.
