As the spirit of basketball prepares to ignite Central Luzon this October, we find ourselves once again basking in the legacy of a true Kapampangan icon— Gil Cortez. This tall figure not only etched his name in the annals of Philippine basketball history but is also an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the region. With the upcoming kickoff of the Central Luzon Basketball League, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on Cortez’s journey and the impact he continues to have on the sport.
The United Central Luzon Athletic Association (UCLAA) is gearing up for an electrifying season from October 24 to 27 at the Don Honorio Ventura State University and Mini Convention Center. Featuring 12 teams from well-known institutions like Holy Angel University and Angeles University Foundation, this league promises to be a launching pad for the next generation of basketball talent. It is here that young athletes will have the chance to showcase their skills, potentially catching the eyes of talent scouts and managers.
Cortez, the UCLAA Chairman, emphasizes the league’s purpose as an important training ground for players. His vision is clear: to nurture and develop the country’s pool of potential national players. “Programs like this are significant for the growth of basketball in our country,” he states. As the first Rookie of the Year in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in 1978, Cortez’s achievements show his niche in the sport. He is not only celebrated for his accolades—a PBA champion and a key figure in the MBA as team manager of the once champion Pampanga Dragons—but also for his support of grassroots basketball.
What makes Cortez’s legacy particularly poignant is his role in shaping the young talents of Philippine basketball. The UCLAA is endorsed by CHED and the Samahan ng Basketball ng Pilipinas, which has been instrumental in the success of the Gilas program, culminating in a historic FIBA Asia Gold medal for the Philippines last year. This connection underscores the importance of local leagues in strengthening talent that can compete on the international stage.
The support from major sponsors like the LausGroup of Companies, and BaliPure further reinforces the significance of this league. It highlights a collective investment in the future of Central Luzon basketball, ensuring that talents have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Let us not forget the indelible mark Koyang Gil has left on the sport and the province of Pampanga. His passion for basketball transcends mere competition; it is about cultivating a love for the game, and building a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
The Central Luzon Basketball League is more than just a series of games; it is a celebration of talent, ambition, and the enduring spirit of basketball in our region. With legends like Cortez leading the way, the future of Filipino basketball shines brightly. Let us rally behind our local teams and support the dreams of our young athletes, knowing that they are the torchbearers of a legacy that Koyang Gil Cortez has so passionately nurtured.