On November 7, 2024, the men’s and women’s basketball teams from Manado Independent School (MIS) High School made an impressive showing by advancing to the final round of the prestigious Developmental Basketball League (DBL) in North Sulawesi. Both teams exhibited exceptional skill and determination, with each player fully committed to their shared vision. MIS also demonstrated incredible school spirit, with enthusiastic support from students, earning them the “Most Favorite School” award and the runner-up position for “Most Favorite Supporter.”
The MIS women’s basketball team, fueled by passion and determination, emerged as the champions, bringing home the DBL trophy they had long dreamed of. Team captain Eugenia Tengko expressed her gratitude, saying, “Winning the championship was an unforgettable moment. It felt like all the effort, commitment, and tough days had finally paid off. It wasn’t just a personal victory, but something we shared with everyone who supported us—especially our coaches, parents, and friends, whose encouragement made a huge difference.”
Anastasya Ombuh, one of the standout players, spoke about balancing her roles as a student-athlete: “As a student-athlete, I have to be good at balancing my studies and the sport I love. With time management skills, I’ve learned to maintain both my academic life and training. That balance has been key to my success in both areas.”
The MIS men’s basketball team also performed exceptionally well, finishing as runners-up in a closely contested final. Their hard-fought battle was reflected in the narrow margin of the final score, highlighting their dedication and resilience. The men’s team scored a total of 301 points across the tournament, demonstrating their strength throughout the competition.
Robben Mangindaan stood out, winning the titles of Most Favorite Player and Most Valuable Player (MVP). In an interview, Robben shared his motivation: “We were determined to win every game. Getting the MVP title was beyond my expectations, as my focus was on playing with my team and striving for victory.” Robben, along with teammates Juano Pasuhuk, Eugenia Tengko, and Anastasya Ombuh, was selected for the DBL First Team and invited to the DBL Camp 2025, earning high praise from DBL Indonesia for their contributions to the team.
Juano Pasuhuk, looking forward to future opportunities, added, “I hope we can perform even better in the upcoming matches. Attending the DBL camp next year is a chance for me to learn from other players and improve both my techniques and teamwork.”
Team captain Timothy Tulenan emphasized the importance of unity, saying, “As a captain, I’ve worked hard to build a strong connection within the team. Every day, we pray and eat lunch together. We even sit together during combined worship, because we believe we’re not just a team—we’re a family. This bond has helped us understand each other and strengthen our chemistry.”
The success of the MIS basketball teams is a testament to the dedication of their three coaches: Coach Michael Pangkey, Coach Katlen Elsira Roring, and Coach Gregoryo Terok, who have instilled trust and confidence in each player. MIS students, teachers, and administrators also provided unwavering support, attending every match to cheer on the teams.
This victory is clear proof that with determination, hard work, and a strong sense of community, MIS students can excel and compete at the highest levels. Looking ahead, MIS hopes its athletes will continue to grow and one day compete in international championships
