SJI Captures 18U Online Basketball Sinulog League Championship

St. John’s Institute (SJI) delivered a remarkable performance to emerge as 18U Online Basketball Sinulog League Champions in the tournament held at the Cebu Eastern College Gym, Cebu City from January 14 to 17, 2026.

SJI opened the tournament with a commanding 61–38 victory over Jump Stop of Surigao, followed by a strong 78–65 win against Davao. The team continued its winning run by defeating Cebu Eastern College, 54–44, before dominating Ormoc, 70–40, to advance to the championship match.

In the championship game, St. John’s Institute once again faced Ormoc in a highly competitive contest. Displaying poise, teamwork, and determination, SJI secured a 64–57 victory to clinch the league title and complete an undefeated tournament run.

Ryton Celis was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament after leading SJI with consistent all-around performances. Celis was also selected to the Mythical 5, together with teammate Andrew Hucalinas, highlighting the duo’s outstanding contributions throughout the competition.

The championship roster of St. John’s Institute’s 18-under team was composed of Nathaniel Fajardo, Ryton Celis, Rafael Rondez, Will Anthony Jover Sy, Rhett Tabanao, Antonio Del Oeste, Andrew Hucalinas, Jose Miguel Jover Sy, Irish Navarro, Marshall Navales, Marcus Navales, Kyle Salgado, Sam Mikhail C. Sardua, and Roland Oñate. The team was guided by Head Coach Troy Sarabia and Assistant Coaches Ronnie Panaguiton and Kidong Soliza, whose leadership and preparation played a vital role in the championship run.

Joining the tournament was the St. John’s Institute 12-under (12U) team, which finished with a 2–2 record and narrowly missed advancing to the finals. The SJI 12U roster included Joachim Gozar, Matt Sofia, Santi Garcia, Miguel Padilla, Mason Chua, Clyde Sia, Nicholas Abong, Arryl Gono, Ash Bachoco, Dale Escarilla, Matteo Tan, Liam Delina, and Jack Chan. The young squad displayed grit and promise, gaining valuable competitive experience against strong opposition.

This championship achievement by the 18U team, together with the commendable showing of the 12U squad, underscores St. John’s Institute’s commitment to excellence and long-term development in youth basketball.* (Stephen Tan)