Jr MVPs banner star-studded caging

Top high school players Juan Gomez de Liano of University of the Philippines and Troy Mallillin of La Salle Green Hills headline the latest batch of standouts seeing action in the 4th SLAM Rising Stars Classic this Sunday at Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong.

Gomez de Liano, who bagged the Most Valuable Player award of the UAAP Season 79 juniors tournament, will lead Team Hype that will be coached by Alaska forward Tony dela Cruz.

Mallillin, the reigning NCAA MVP, will spearhead Team Punks of coach Willie Miller in the annual event where blue-chip players like La Salle’s Prince Rivero, Ricci Rivero and Aljun Melecio as well as Ateneo’s Thirdy Ravena, Mike Nieto and Matt Nieto are among the notable alumni.

Joining forces with Mallillin are Kenji Roman of UAAP champion Far Eastern U and Jasper Salenga of NCAA titlist Mapua.

“Slam is giving players a unique opportunity to play with and against the best competition, in front of scouts and coaches,” said SLAM PH executive editor Nikko Ramos.