THE 28th season of the Sacred Heart Ateneo Alumni Basketball Athletic Association (Shaabaa) is set to fire off on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the Magis Eagles Arena of Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu in Canduman, Mandaue City.
Under the new leadership of president Dr. Chammy Dalawampu, Shaabaa is introducing several changes to the league structure.
Instead of the usual three divisions, the tournament will now feature only two — Divisions B and C — following the merger of Division A with Division B.
Aside from the restructuring, a new drafting system for Division B has also been implemented to ensure a more balanced playing field and exciting matchups.
“This allows players from batches who can’t form a full team the opportunity to play, while giving existing teams a chance to strengthen their rosters through the draft. This raises the level of competition and makes every Division B game worth watching,” Dalawampu said.
The playoffs are also getting an upgrade, expanding from four to six qualifying teams. This change promises even more exciting postseason action.
Division B will feature 11 teams, including returning champions Core Pacific Money Exchange and 2KCares.org, along with a new entry: Magis Medical Fund, a team comprised of SHS-AdC faculty and staff. Division C will have eight teams.
In another development, Shaabaa has partnered with the Metro Cebu Basketball Referees Association (MCBRA), the same group that officiates the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi).
Dalawampu also revealed that the All-Star Game format will be changed to coincide with the Jubilarian celebration of the Batch 2000.
The opening ceremony will start at 10 a.m., while the games will begin at 1 p.m. / JBM