Manila's Streetball Showdown: Red Bull Half Court Manila Qualifiers Recap

Manila, Philippines – The City of Manila witnessed a heart-pumping and jaw-dropping showcase last April 13, 2024 with the Red Bull Half Court Manila Qualifiers. As the event took place in Gameville BallPark and Activate Hoop Arena in Mandaluyong, locals and basketball enthusiasts alike attended to see the excitement unfold.

In a highly-competitive showdown that kept watchers on the edge of their seats, the event showcased an array of electrifying plays, from buzzer-beaters that sent the crowd into a frenzy to shocking crossovers that left viewers in awe. The court became a stage for the finest streetballers in Manila to exhibit their skills, and they did not disappoint.

Emerging victorious in a fiercely contested match in the men’s category was the Far Eastern University (FEU) against Team Elite with a hard-fought 12-11 win in overtime, showcasing their exceptional skills and unwavering determination. 

Upon winning, Coach Mau of FEU said the event was a testament to the undeniable passion and skill that defines Manila's streetball scene. “We poured our hearts into every play, and to come out on top amidst such fierce competition just shows our hard work and dedication. We're thrilled to represent our city on the national stage and take another step closer to the ultimate prize in New York."

Photo Provided by Mags Reyes

Meanwhile, the New Zealand Creamery showcased their dominance In the women's category with a commanding performance against Falcons Blue securing a resounding 13-6 victory.

New Zealand Creamery highlighted that teamwork is what helped them win the Finals. “Teamwork is the most important factor during the qualifiers especially during the Finals earlier, during the finals is where we showed our team's chemistry. Teamwork is what brings a team together, that’s why we focused and constantly practiced our team work again.,” they stated. 

After their big win at the Manila Qualifiers, FEU and New Zealand Creamery will now advance to the National Finals on April 27, alongside Team Elite, Coach J Hoops Academy (CJHA-B), Kamacayan, and Falcons Blue. The eventual winners will secure their spot in the highly anticipated Red Bull Half Court World Finals in New York City, which will take place from October 16-21. This prestigious event brings together the best streetball teams from around the globe for a showdown of skill, athleticism, and sheer passion for the game.

Photo Provided by Mags Reyes

To keep up with team FEU, Team Elite, CJHA-B , Kamacayan, New Zealand Creamery, and Falcons Blue and their journey to greatness, follow them along at the official Red Bull website and social media pages (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Tiktok).

Red Bull Half Court’s First Davao Champions Headed to Conquer National Finals in Manila!

Manila Philippines, April 8, 2024- In a showdown of talent and tenacity, the Red Bull Half Court Qualifiers in Davao reached its thrilling conclusion. Blancas Golden Knights dominated the men's division, while Coaches Corner showcased their supremacy in the women's category, commanding the court with their exceptional skill and determination. From buzzer-beaters to jaw-dropping crossovers, the event witnessed the best of Davao's streetball scene - crowning Davao’s first-ever Red Bull Half Court champions. 

Rising stars emerged, leaving an indelible mark on the court and setting the stage for an electrifying journey ahead. The victorious teams from Davao now advance to the National Qualifiers, where they will face off against other regional champions from across the country alongside wildcard teams consisting of professional players to make the competition more intense. 

“We worked so hard to prepare for this league, and we made sure to stay focused throughout each game and not become complacent. Also, we leave it up to God in order to strengthen our determination to win,” expressed by Blanca on how they prepared for the Red Bull Half Court Davao Qualifiers.

Photo Provided by Kentoy Films

Meanwhile, despite training individually during their preparation, the winning team in the Women's Division attributed their triumph to their exceptional teamwork. 

“Our teamwork has really set us apart from the rest of the teams today. We make sure to work seamlessly together to communicate effectively on the court, which I think was the most important thing in securing this victory,” the Coaches Corner team stated.

The stakes are high as they compete for a coveted spot in the Red Bull Half Court World Finals, set to take place in the basketball mecca of New York City.

Cemented by their recent triumphs, Blanca, UMTC - 3, and Coaches Corner will go to the National Finals.. With their skills honed and their spirits unwavering, they stand ready to represent the Davao region at the Red Bull National Finals this April 27, 2024 

Photo Provided by Kentoy Films

Keep an eye out for the next regional qualifiers, happening in Manila this April 13, 2024, visit the official Red Bull website or Red Bull Half Court page, and the following social media pages (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Tiktok).

TNT Tropang Giga and Uratex Dream to Represent the Philippines at the World Finals of Red Bull Half Court in Belgrade, Serbia

MANILA, Philippines - Following the electric and intense National Finals event that showcased the extraordinary skills of Filipino streetballers, Red Bull Philippines secured Team TNT Tropang Giga of the Men’s Division and Team Uratex Dream of the Women’s Division as the representatives of the country. The two teams will carry the nation’s flag at the highly anticipated World Finals of Red Bull Half Court in Belgrade, Serbia this September 16 to 17, 2023.

TNT Tropang Giga exhibited remarkable resilience throughout the tournament. In an intense, winner-takes-all match against the formidable CAVITEX Braves, both teams battled it out, with TNT Tropang Giga coming out on top with a close final score of 20 to 21. TNT Tropang Giga will consist of Reuben Chester Saluda, Luis Lorenzo III Gonzaga, Rodel Samboy De Leon, and Lervin Yambao for the World Finals.

In the Women’s Division, Uratex Dream solidified their mark, as they dominated their opponents in a masterclass-like display of teamwork and skill. Comprising of Kaye Pingol, Mikka Cacho, Samantha Harada, and Blanche Bahuyan, the team proved to be a force to be reckoned with throughout the tournament. The team’s resounding victory over Team FILA was considered the nail in the coffin as Uratex Dream secured their spot as the Women’s Division champions.

Looking ahead to the World Finals in Serbia, both TNT Tropang Giga and Uratex Dream are fueled with motivation and ready to showcase their talents on the global stage. With the pride of the Philippines on their backs, these athletes embody the essence of streetball and are determined more than ever to bring honor to their homeland. 

The World Finals of Red Bull Half Court 2023 are set to take place in Belgrade, Serbia from September 16 to 17, 2023, and will be streamed live on Red Bull’s TikTok account (@redbull) on September 17, 9:40 PM CET. TNT Tropang Giga and Uratex Dream are poised to face off against the best of the best streetballers from around the world, vying for the ultimate championship and the title of the best streetballer team in the world.

For more information and updates regarding the World Finals of Red Bull Half Court, visit the official Red Bull website and the following social media pages (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Tiktok)

LEWIS HAMILTON IN ULTIMATE BASKETBALL CHALLENGE AHEAD OF MIAMI GP

Miami, Florida - 3rd May 2023: Ahead of the second Miami Grand Prix™, IWC Schaffhausen invited a group of famous athletes and celebrities to compete with seven-time Formula One™ world champion Lewis Hamilton on the basketball court. The “IWC Chrono Challenge” organized in collaboration with Miami-based non-profit charity, Dibia DREAM, marked the first of several events during IWC’s three-day takeover of Jungle Plaza in the heart of the iconic Miami Design District.

The “IWC Chrono Challenge” saw two teams competing against each other in three different basketball skill challenges. “Team Pink” was led by seven-time Formula One™ world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, who was joined by Hollywood actor James Marsden and former professional football player Antrel Rolle. Canadian actor and ‘Barbie Movie’ star Simu Liu, American Olympic skateboarder Jagger Eaton and Dibia DREAM founder and CEO Brandon Okpalobi formed the opposing “Team Green.”

Discussing the IWC Chrono Challenge event Lewis Hamilton said “I think it’s really really great that and we’ve got all these kids here and I think it’s great what IWC is doing. It is so important to be supporting the future of the world.” He continued, “I love basketball, I’ve always been a huge fan. It’s probably my favourite sport, so to have an event where that’s incorporated in it is pretty cool.”

THREE BASKETBALL SKILL CHALLENGES

In the first challenge, players had to dribble and jump towards the basket, trying to achieve as many layups as possible in 60 seconds. Next, the competitors attempted to score as many free throws as they could in a 30-seconds beat-the-buzzer challenge. Finally, two players took turns shooting from several defined spots on the court. For each ball landing in the basket, they received one letter to spell out the word “Chrono” – a playful reference to the recently-launched chronograph. F1TM legend David Coulthard hosted the event, supported by former college basketball athlete and Laureus USA Program Officer Tiffany Aidoo. Hollywood actress Monica Barbaro was responsible for keeping the score and the exact timekeeping of the challenges.

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IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

In 1868, the American watchmaker and entrepreneur Florentine Ariosto Jones travelled from Boston to Switzerland and founded the ‘International Watch Company’ in Schaffhausen. His visionary dream was to combine advanced American manufacturing methods with the craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers to make the best pocket watches of his time. In doing so, he not only laid the foundation for IWC’s unique engineering approach but also established the centralised production of mechanical watches in Switzerland.

Over its 150 year history, IWC Schaffhausen has developed a reputation for creating functional complications, especially chronographs and calendars, which are ingenious, robust, and easy for customers to use. A pioneer in the use of titanium and ceramics, IWC today specialises in highly engineered technical watch cases manufactured from advanced materials, such as titanium aluminide and Ceratanium®. Preferring the principle of “form follows function” over decoration, the Swiss watch manufacturer’s timeless creations embody their owners’ dreams and ambitions as they journey through life.

IWC sources materials responsibly and takes action to minimise its impact on the environment, creating intrinsically sustainable timepieces that are built to last for generations. The company prides itself in training its own future watchmakers and engineers, as well as offering an excellent working environment for all employees. IWC also partners with organisations that work globally to support children and young people.

IWC AND DIBIA DREAM

For the basketball challenge, IWC once again collaborated with Dibia DREAM, a nonprofit organization sparking social change through STEM education and sport for underserved young people in Miami. IWC has been supporting Dibia DREAM since 2022 through their global partnership with Laureus. Kids from Dibia DREAM programs participated in the warm-up and supported the players as ball girls and boys during the challenge.

The IWC basketball court will remain on Jungle Plaza until Friday. During the takeover, members of the public can register for Basketball Clinics. Dibia DREAM will also organize different educational activities for children. Following the event in Miami, IWC will donate the basketball court to Dibia DREAM and the City of Miami. In addition, IWC will repurpose the mural canvas to support a local organization.

DIBIA DREAM

Founded in 2013, Dibia DREAM provides a safe place after school, on the weekends and in the summer with caring, responsible adults and engaging activities. Dibia DREAM was created with athletes and aspiring youth in underserved communities in mind. Its programs use sports as an instrument to teach life skills and promote mentorship, active participation, and exposure to diverse opportunities through its 5 Pillar program. Dibia DREAM delivers early, positive experiences for students in sport, physical activity, STEM, and education. Our goal is to enrich the youth through transformative experiences.

LAUREUS SPORT FOR GOOD FOUNDATION

Laureus is a global movement that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of children and young people. In 2000, Laureus’ founding patron Nelson Mandela said ‘sport has the power to change the world’, and these words have become the philosophy of Laureus and the driving force behind its work. Since 2000, Laureus Sport for Good has used the power of sport to overcome violence, discrimination and inequality, changing the lives of over six and half million children and young people. Laureus Sport for Good currently supports more than 275 programmes in over 50 countries and territories.

2K ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL NBA 2K20 GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIP

NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2019 – Today, 2K is excited to announce it is partnering with the National Basketball Association (NBA), National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), and ESL, the world’s largest esports company, to create the NBA 2K20 Global Championship.  Featuring more than $100,000 in prizes, the NBA 2K20 Global Championship is a new competitive tournament designed for aspiring NBA 2K20 players worldwide.  The global tournament will feature head-to-head competition in a series of online and offline events that will take place from October 2019 to February 2020, culminating in a final event in the United States to crown the first-ever NBA 2K20 global champion. Registration is open today at www.nba2kgc.com. 

“We’re excited to partner with the NBA, NBPA and ESL to create this first-of-its-kind tournament for NBA 2K,” said Jason Argent, Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations at 2K.  “For anyone who is interested to test how their skills match up on a global scale, we encourage you to register and see if you truly have what it takes to become the best head-to-head player in the world.”

“The global scale of the tournament reflects the incredible growth of basketball around the world,” said Matthew Holt, NBA Senior Vice President, Consumer Products & Gaming Partnerships.  “The NBA 2K20 Global Championship offers a chance for anyone in the world to compete.”

“We are thrilled to be working with these partners in creating this milestone event in gaming,” said Josh Goodstadt, EVP of Licensing for the NBPI, the commercial arm of the NBPA.  “Our players come from all over the world and this is a unique experience which will allow fans from every corner of the globe to engage and compete with them through NBA 2K.”

From October to November 2019, aspiring NBA 2K20 players will compete in local online qualifiers in the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific regions that will lead to online playoffs, which will determine who advances to the regional finals.  Regional finals will be held as live events at the ESL studios in Los Angeles, Paris and Sydney, where each winner will receive $15,000 and other prizes from the NBA and 2K.

The Global Finals will be held on February 22, 2020 at the ESL studio in Los Angeles, where eight finalists will compete to determine who will be crowned the first-ever global champion.  The winner of the NBA 2K20 Global Championship will receive $100,000 in prizes. 

For official rules, please visit www.nba2kgc.com.

Developed by Visual Concepts, NBA 2K20 is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB. For more information on NBA 2K20, please visit https://nba.2k.com/2k20/. 

Follow NBA 2K on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook for the latest NBA 2K20 news. 

2K is a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).

Online account (13+) required to access online features.  See www.take2games.com/legalandwww.take2games.com/privacy for additional details.

About Take-Two Interactive Software

Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is a leading developer, publisher and marketer of interactive entertainment for consumers around the globe.  We develop and publish products through our labels Rockstar Games, 2K, and Private Division, as well as Social Point, a leading developer of mobile games.  Our products are designed for console systems and personal computers, including smartphones and tablets, and are delivered through physical retail, digital download, online platforms and cloud streaming services.  The Company’s common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO.  For more corporate and product information please visit our website at www.take2games.com.

About the NBA

The NBA is a global sports and media business built around four professional sports leagues: the National Basketball Association, the Women’s National Basketball Association, the NBA G League and the NBA 2K League.  The NBA has established a major international presence with games and programming in 215 countries and territories in 50 languages, and merchandise for sale in more than 100,000 stores in 100 countries on six continents.  NBA rosters at the start of the 2018-19 season featured 108 international players from 42 countries and territories.  NBA Digital’s assets include NBA TV, NBA.com, the NBA App and NBA League Pass.  The NBA has created one of the largest social media communities in the world, with 1.6 billion likes and followers globally across all league, team, and player platforms.  Through NBA Cares, the league addresses important social issues by working with internationally recognized youth-serving organizations that support education, youth and family development, and health-related causes.

About the NBPA

The National Basketball Players Association is the union for current professional basketball players in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Established in 1954, the NBPA’s mission is to protect and support the rights and talents of our players, magnify the power of their collective will, and amplify their voices as leaders who will transcend sport and society globally.

The NBPA advocates on behalf of the best interests of all NBA players, including the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the filing of grievances on behalf of the players, or counseling players on benefits, educational and post-NBA career opportunities.  Business opportunities are generated by the NBPI, the subsidiary of the NBPA charged with managing the players’ group licensing rights.

Dedicated to preserving the legacy of its members, the NBPA Foundation provides support and assistance to persons, communities and organizations around the world that seek to improve the lives of those in need.

About ESL

ESL is the world’s largest esports company. Founded in 2000, ESL has been shaping the industry across the most popular video games with numerous online and offline competitions.  It operates high profile, branded international leagues and tournaments such as ESL One, Intel® Extreme Masters, ESL Pro League and other top tier stadium-size events, as well as ESL National Championships, grassroots amateur cups and matchmaking systems, defining the path from zero to hero as short as possible.  With offices all over the world, ESL is leading esports forward on a global scale. ESL is a part of MTG, the leading international digital entertainment group. (www.about.eslgaming.com)

About 2K

Founded in 2005, 2K develops and publishes global interactive entertainment for console and handheld gaming systems, personal computers and mobile devices, with product availability including physical retail and digital download.  The Company is home to many talented development studios, including Visual Concepts, Firaxis Games, Hangar 13, Cat Daddy Games and 2K Silicon Valley. 2K’s portfolio currently includes the renowned BioShock®, Borderlands™, Mafia and XCOM® franchises; NBA® 2K, the global phenomenon and highest rated** annual sports title for the current console generation; the critically acclaimed Sid Meier’s Civilization® series; the popular WWE® 2K and WWE® SuperCard franchises, as well as emerging properties NBA® 2K Playgrounds 2, Carnival Games and more. Additional information about 2K and its products may be found at 2k.com.

*According to 2008 - 2019 Metacritic.com

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