Cagayan de Oro’s A-Team Pilipinas brought home the U11 World Youth Championship title after beating the Singapore Basketball Academy (SBA) in the Aug. 9, 2026 finals in Singapore.
The CDO-based team relied on aggressive defense to contain Singapore’s taller lineup, disrupting the SBA guards and limiting their offensive plays throughout the championship game.
Eleven-year-old Rafael “Peja” Cabusca Reyes led the campaign and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).
A-Team Pilipinas opened the tournament with a 58-28 win over Riptide China before defeating HOB, 47-38, in the semifinals to reach the title match.
The championship capped a milestone year for the program, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
"Thank you, Lord, for giving us this championship. The timing is perfect as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of A Team," coach Arvin Martinez said.
Martinez also thanked the team’s sponsors, parents and players for their support and trust throughout the program’s decade-long journey.
The squad’s international campaign came after months of preparation, including challenges in building the player pool, arranging logistics and securing passports before departure.
Supported by the Philippine Youth Dreamers Organization, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), local schools and private sponsors, A-Team Pilipinas said its program remains focused on developing young players through discipline, teamwork and sports.
"I am so proud of the attitude you displayed both on and off the court," Martinez told his players.
He also thanked SBP for its continued guidance and support, saying the program’s broader goal is to develop young athletes and change lives through sports. Dave Achondo, Editorial Assistant
