The Philippines will have a stake in the upcoming East Asia Super League (EASL) Final 4, courtesy of basketball standout Rhenz Abando, who is set to don the colors of Anyang Jung Kwan Jang in the highly anticipated three-day event at the Hoops Dome in Lapu Lapu, Cebu.

Abando, who recently made a triumphant return to the court for the Korean Basketball League (KBL) side, showcased his skills in a stellar performance against Goyang Sono last Sunday. Despite facing adversities from a harrowing fall that resulted in multiple injuries, Abando displayed resilience, tallying 17 points, four rebounds, four steals, and three assists to help secure a crucial 92-87 victory.

While Abando gears up for the EASL showdown, another Filipino talent, Juan Gomez de Liano, unfortunately, won’t be gracing the court for the Seoul SK Knights. The guard, hailing from the University of the Philippines, underwent season-ending surgery on his finger, putting a halt to his participation in the tournament.

In the ‘March Madness’ edition of the EASL, the Red Boosters and the Knights are slated to go head-to-head, igniting excitement among basketball enthusiasts. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for 5 p.m. this Friday, followed by an electrifying clash between the undefeated Chiba Jets of the B. League and the New Taipei Kings led by Jeremy Lin of the P. League+ at 8 p.m.

The winners of these semifinal pairings will lock horns in the Finals on Sunday, vying for the prestigious title and a staggering $1 million prize money.

As anticipation builds for the tournament, teams have begun arriving in the vibrant city of Lapu Lapu, with the exception of the Jets, who are already poised for the fierce competition. Philippine Ambassador to Korea Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega, along with embassy officials and members of the local Filipino community, showed their support by attending Abando’s game and sending off the Red Boosters as they set their sights on clinching victory in the EASL championship.