Less than a year after the closing salvo of Season 8, the highly anticipated Season 9 of UMTC (United Marine Training Center) Basketball League officially tipped off last Tuesday, 20 February 2024, at the UMTC Basketball court in Manila.
With the opening act setting the bar high, eagerness for the upcoming games is fever-pitched. The season highlighted these 10 new rosters of teams from different organizations who will battle out for the top spot:
- Crossworld
- Hartmann
- Marina
- MSC SMSI
- Navigator Gas
- Preserv
- Shared Solutions Inc.
- Soliman
- UMTC
- UMTC Faculty
The Muses of each team brought a unique and electrifying energy to the court, representing their respective groups with passion and grace, adding an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the event while captivating the audience with their performances.
The tournament was officially declared by UMTC President, Mr. Tony Galvez followed by a special message to ignite the spirit of competition and fair play delivered by STCW Office MARINA Deputy Director, Capt. Vicente Navarro. The Oath of Sportsmanship and Guidelines was led by UMTC Managing Director Engr. Donald Bautista and, thereafter, the ceremonial jump ball, which signifies the beginning of the thrilling season, was joined by Marlow Navigation Company Representative, Mr. Joost Mes.
Mr. Tony Galvez
Capt. Vicente Navarro
Engr. Donald Bautista
Jump ball with Mr. Joost Mes
As the ceremony ended, the awarding of Muse and Best in Uniform for an additional element of recognition and excitement to the event was judged by the esteemed panel of guests.
Best Muse: Carmina Cruz
Best in Uniform: MSC Reinforcement
L-R: Ms. Luz Celestino of Navigator Gas, C/E Felicito Zingapan Jr. of Hartmann, Capt. Levy Capayas of Crossworld, Mr. Arnel Arroyo of Shipmed Properties. Inc. and Ms. Eileen Wong of MSC SMSI
This season reflects the league's mission of uniting different organizations through the love of basketball, promoting friendly competition, and fostering an intense community among its players and the audience.
UBL Season 9 regular schedule will have two games every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. The teams will continue to compete throughout the season, leading up to the highly anticipated playoffs.
