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WMPBL D-League provides boost to grassroots basketball

Sports | Basketball

WMPBL D-League provides boost to grassroots basketball

By Reynald I. Magallon

At A Glance

The WMPBL Developmental League opens its second season on Saturday, May 16, carrying its goal of expanding opportunities for emerging talent and strengthening the grassroots foundation of women's basketball.

The WMPBL Developmental League opened its second season on Saturday, May 16, carrying its goal of expanding opportunities for emerging talent and strengthening the grassroots foundation of women’s basketball.

A total of five teams are set to compete in the 19-and-under division, while seven squads will see action in the 16-and-under category. Most of these are club teams composed of players coming from various schools and grassroots programs.

For commissioner Iriss Isip, the league continues to play a vital role in shaping young athletes by giving them meaningful exposure and a platform to grow in a competitive environment.

“This is so important kasi siyempre every player deserves a platform especially kung bata ka pa, hindi mo pa siya na-feel na gano'n level so kailangan natin introduce na yung ginagawa nila na practice, mag-aaral during the early age, deserve din nila na ma-rewardan,” said Isip.

With the WMPBL D-League set to run for the next two months, organizers believe it will open more pathways for development while also creating additional opportunities for young players to progress in the sport.

“That's the important aspect naman kasi ang team siyempre every team deserves support especially women's, deserves to continue growing and stronger siyempre,” Isip added.

“Kasi behind every athlete siyempre meron story of sacrifices yan. We have livestreams, media day tayo, meron tayong mga reels. So pinapafeel natin yung parang pro na din,” she said.

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