Malta Ballers – a team of Malta-based Filipino players shined as they won third place at the inaugural edition of the Torino Cup last week.
The Torino Cup, a tournament bringing together eight teams consisting of Filipino players was originally introduced for teams based in Italy, but the Maltese team managed to participate as the only non-Italy-based team in the tournament on Sunday.
Taking part were Trese Hudas and SHC One from Turin, eventual winners 22 Marzo and Yolo representing Milan, Darat Boys of Bologna and Reggio Emilia.
Participation was just the first thing on the Malta Ballers’ agenda as they pushed past their opposition throughout the one-day tournament, only missing out on a place in the final with defeat in the semis against Reggio Emilia.
The Malta Ballers team brought together a set of players led by Jhun Jhun Lisondra, who was on the books of BOV Division One side Valletta Fighters last season.
Lisondra showed his mettle to win Player of the Game twice throughout the season, with Keith Soi Micaller also bagging the accolade once himself.
Speaking to Malta Basketball, the team expressed its appreciation towards the Torino Cup organisers, praising the fact that even in its first edition, teams were allowed to take part without paying for registration and the top three teams were given cash prizes.
MALTA BALLERS ROSTER
Jhunjhun Lisondra, El Jan Gargueña, Bonito Basa, Keith Soi Micaller, Tristan Mendoza, Neil Marco Hilario Madla, Lawrence Layug, John Bryan Virtucio, Dave Constantino, Sean Andrei Mendoza.