TAT in Isabela: purposeful homecoming

The 2025 Asian Tournament (TAT) Winter Classic officially opens today in this city, marking one of the biggest international sporting events ever hosted in the province.

- By BILL VELASCO

Eight new and familiar powerhouse teams from across Asia and the Philippines are set to compete, bringing world-class basketball action to Isabela’s sports fans.After typhoon Uwan cancelled the Pangasinan leg last month, Ilagan graciously accepted the challenge of hosting the games.

Participating teams include the Macau Black Bears, Hong Kong Vantablack Dragons, Guangdong Daifutang, perennial finalists Aces, Cool Masters, Sirius Star Filipinas, Caloocan Supremos, and the home team, the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys. The local teams have their work cut out for them, as most of the visiting squads carry vastly experienced internationalist imports of intimidating size.