The Pinay Elite girls basketball team has etched their name in the record books by claiming the first-ever U14 Girls Championship crown at the Allied Basketball League (ABL), marking a proud moment for the Filipino community in the UAE.
Composed of Filipina players aged 11 to 14, the all-Filipino squad brought together talents from various teams across the country, uniting under one banner to represent Team Pilipinas. Guided by Head Coach Ron Sanchez and assistant coaches Homer Gaddi and Pong Espinosa, the girls displayed grit, teamwork, and exceptional basketball IQ throughout the tournament.
The championship lineup featured Ysai Espinosa, Shayne Gaddi, Lau Rivera, Sofia Pacua, Sam Reyes, Rice Nakayama, Shylle Mar, Sheika Crisologo, Gab Bagagnan, Princess, and Shaikha Ugot — all of whom contributed to the team’s dominant run.
Their victory is more than just a trophy win — it’s a celebration of Filipino pride and unity, as the girls overcame challenges and differences in team backgrounds to play as one.
Looking forward, the Pinay Elite hopes to carry their momentum onto the international stage, driven by a shared dream to raise the Philippine flag in global youth basketball tournaments.