NIFA Intercollegiate Basketball Tournament Rules and Regulations

Table of Contents

Open Invitation to All Colleges and Universities

The NIFA Basketball Tournament warmly welcomes participation from all colleges and universities across the Philippines. We are committed to fostering a diverse and competitive environment, bringing together institutions from various regions to celebrate and promote basketball excellence.

NIFA is dedicated to upholding fair play, integrity, and a strong competitive spirit in our basketball league. We firmly believe in providing a level playing field where sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and inclusivity are paramount. Our tournament is not just a competition, but a platform for growth, character building, and the celebration of athletic excellence within a framework of respect and fairness.

NIFA and ABA Global

The National Intercollegiate Forum for Athletes (NIFA) is the official draft league of the American Basketball Association (ABA Global) Draft. 

ABA Global is a catalyst for developing global basketball talent. Originating from the American Basketball Association (ABA), ABA Global brings a legacy of innovative basketball since 1967, known for propelling players to legendary status.

Today, ABA Global enhances this tradition through the ABA Global League, a platform uniting international talents and offering pathways to professional careers. This collaboration with NIFA is especially beneficial for student-athletes, providing them with significant exposure and opportunities. The ABA Global League Draft stands out as a key event, offering NIFA’s top talents the chance to be scouted for international play, thereby elevating their career prospects.

The ABA Global Academy further supports this endeavor, focusing on skill development, sportsmanship, and teamwork, essential for succeeding in professional basketball. This partnership between ABA Global and NIFA not only nurtures skills but also opens doors for athletes to transition from local talent to global basketball prominence.

For more information, you may visit their website www.abaglobalgames.com.

UBI Rewards for All Participants

Introduction to the Partnership and Benefits

NIFA, in partnership with Bangko Maharlika, provides exclusive benefits involving MHLK cryptocurrency to its student-athletes, coaches, team officers, and participating schools. This initiative aligns with NIFA’s commitment to supporting and empowering its participants both in sports and financial literacy.

MHLK Cryptocurrency Grants

1. For Individual Participants: Each student-athlete, coach, and team officer in the NIFA tournament will receive a 20,000 MHLK cryptocurrency grant. The grant has an RWA intrinsic value of 1 million pesos per individual, aimed at providing financial empowerment and an introduction to digital currency.
2. For Participating Schools: Participating schools are also beneficiaries of this initiative, receiving a 200,000 MHLK cryptocurrency grant with an RWA intrinsic value of 10 million pesos. This grant is designed to bolster sports programs, improve facilities, and provide additional resources for student-athletes.

Understanding and Utilizing MHLK Cryptocurrency

1. Educational Resources and Support: Recipients will be provided with resources to understand, access, and effectively manage their MHLK cryptocurrency. Bangko Maharlika, a pioneer in digital finance, will offer support and assistance in setting up and managing digital wallets. Queries and concerns about the cryptocurrency grant can be addressed to designated contact points at Bangko Maharlika.
2. Bangko Maharlika (Ticker: MHLKBANGKO / Cardano) and the MHLK-IRM (Ticker : MHLK / Ethereum) RWA Cryptocurrency: Bangko Maharlika Ltd is the world leader in Universal Basic Income (UBI). It is at the forefront of digital financial innovation, offering the MHLK cryptocurrency, which is traded on key international exchanges and owns and operates its own digital twin Metaverse. The value of its digital assets are derived from its Real World Assets (RWA) status, listings, ecosystems and community use. This partnership reflects a shared vision of nurturing talent and providing financial literacy and opportunities to the youth. More information can be found at their website www.bangkomaharlika.com 
3. The Impact of This Initiative: The MHLK cryptocurrency grants are a testament to NIFA’s dedication to the holistic development of its participants, offering both athletic and financial growth opportunities.

Through this innovative approach, NIFA and Bangko Maharlika are setting a new standard for supporting student-athletes and educational institutions in the Philippines.

General Rules

1. Adoption of ABA Rules: The NIFA Basketball Tournament primarily adheres to the established rules of ABA, with certain modifications tailored to our league.
2. Precedence of NIFA Rules: In instances where NIFA’s modified rules diverge from standard ABA regulations, the rules set forth by NIFA shall take precedence.
3. Authority to Amend Rules: NIFA retains the authority to amend or override rules from both ABA and its own set, as deemed necessary to uphold the integrity and fairness of the tournament.
4. Interpreting Ambiguities: Should any ambiguity or gap in the rules arise, NIFA possesses the discretion to interpret existing rules or formulate new guidelines to address such scenarios.

Tournament Structure and Regional Competitions

Nationwide Tournament Framework

1. Concurrent Regional Tournaments: In line with its commitment to national inclusivity, the NIFA Basketball Tournament will conduct 20 concurrent tournaments across the Philippines, corresponding to the country’s 16 provincial regions and 4 sub-regions of NCR, culminating in a national championship. 
2. List of Regions:

1. National Capital Region (NCR)
2. Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
3. Ilocos Region (Region I)
4. Cagayan Valley (Region II)
5. Central Luzon (Region III)
6. CALABARZON (Region IV-A)
7. MIMAROPA (Region IV-B)
8. Bicol Region (Region V)
9. Western Visayas (Region VI)
10. Central Visayas (Region VII)
11. Eastern Visayas (Region VIII)
12. Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX)
13. Northern Mindanao (Region X)
14. Davao Region (Region XI)
15. SOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII)
16. Caraga (Region XIII)
17. Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
18. Negros Island Region (NIR)

Team Participation and Selection

1. Limit of Teams per Region: Each regional tournament will accept a maximum of 16 schools only, ensuring a balanced and competitive setup.

Selection Process for Excess Registrations: If registrations exceed the limit, a fair drawing of slots will be conducted to determine the participating schools in each region.

Path to the National Championship

1. Regional Champions: Winners from each region will emerge as regional champions through competitive play.
2. The National Competition: These champions will compete in the National Competition, where one team will earn the prestigious title of National Champion.
3. Showcasing Regional Talent: This tournament structure celebrates the diverse talents from different parts of the Philippines, providing a platform for regional skills to shine on a national level.

Competition Structure for Regional and National Games

Regional Competition Structure

1. Division of Teams: At the regional level, teams will be divided into four divisions – A, B, C, and D, each consisting of four teams. This division ensures a balanced and competitive structure for the preliminary round.
2. Competition Structure: This will be the game format for the regional games. Those who move up to the national games will follow the same format. 

Round 1

The top 2 teams in each bracket move to the next round.

Round 2: Quarter Finals

QF 1: Top 1A vs Top 2D

QF 2: Top 2A vs Top 1D

QF 3: Top 1B vs Top 2C

QF 4: Top 2B vs Top 1C

Winners of Quarter Finals move to the next round.

Losers of Quarter Finals are eliminated.

Round 3: Semi-finals

Semi-final 1: Winner QF 1 vs Winner QF 4

Semi-final 2: Winner QF 2 vs Winner QF 3

Winners of Semi-finals move to the Finals.

Losers of Semi-finals compete for third place.

Round 4: Finals

Losers of Semi-finals compete for third place.

Winners of Semi-finals compete for the Championship.

3. Regional Winners: The teams defeated in the Semi-finals compete for third place. This match determines the third-ranking team in the tournament.
   
   The winners of the Semi-finals play in the Championship game. The victor of this match determines the Region’s Champion and qualifies for the National Competition, where they will compete against champions from other regions.
   
   The champion team earns the honor of representing their region at the National Competition, where they will compete against other Regional Champions to determine the National Champion.

National Competition Structure

1. Competition Rounds: The National Competition will follow the same format as the regional tournaments, from the preliminary round to the Finals. Additional considerations will be made for the bracket with five teams to integrate them seamlessly into the tournament progression.
2. Bracket Allocation: Teams will be allocated into 4 brackets based on their performance in the regional tournaments. The goal is to ensure that each bracket is well-balanced, with an equitable distribution of team strengths.
3. Adjustment for 17 Teams: Due to the inclusion of 17 regional champions, one of the brackets at the National Competition will have an additional, fifth team.This ensures that each region is represented while maintaining a competitive format.

Replacement Procedure for National Competition Qualifiers

1. Purpose: This section establishes the protocol for replacing Regional Champion teams or other top-placing teams that are unable to participate in the National Competition of the NIFA Basketball Tournament.
2. Initial Replacement: If the Regional Champion team is unable to participate in the National Competition, the opportunity will be offered to the 2nd place team from the same regional tournament.
3. Subsequent Replacements: In the event that the 2nd place team is also unable to participate, the replacement offer will then be extended to the 3rd place team, followed by the 4th place team, if necessary.
4. Standings-Based Replacement: If none of the top four teams from a regional tournament (Champion, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place) are able to participate in the National Competition, the next eligible team will be selected based on the overall team standings from the regional competition.
5. Notification and Confirmation: Teams eligible for replacement must notify NIFA of their intention to participate in the National Competition within a specified timeframe after being offered the opportunity. This ensures timely arrangements and preparations for the national event.
6. Eligibility Criteria: Replacement teams must meet all the eligibility criteria for the National Competition, including any specific requirements related to team composition, player eligibility, and adherence to tournament rules and regulations.
7. Transparency and Fairness: This procedure is designed to maintain the integrity and competitive balance of the National Competition, ensuring that all regions are represented by qualified and capable teams.
8. Acknowledgment and Acceptance: By participating in the NIFA Basketball Tournament, all teams acknowledge and accept this replacement procedure as a fair and necessary measure to ensure the smooth and competitive progression of the tournament to the national level.

Tiebreaker Rules

In instances where teams have identical win-loss records, the following tiebreaker rules are applied to determine team standings. These rules are aligned with international basketball standards to ensure fairness and clarity in ranking teams.

1. Head-to-Head Results: If two teams are tied, the first criterion to break the tie is the result of the game(s) played between the tied teams. The team that won the head-to-head matchup is placed higher.
2. Point Differential in Head-to-Head Games: If the head-to-head result doesn’t break the tie (for example, if each team won one game against the other), the next criterion is the point differential in the games involving the tied teams. The team with the higher point differential (points scored minus points conceded) in these games is placed higher.
3. Points Scored in Head-to-Head Games: If the point differential doesn’t resolve the tie, the total points scored in the games between the tied teams are considered. The team with more points scored in these games is ranked higher.
4. Overall Point Differential: If the tie persists, the overall point differential in all tournament games is considered. This is the total of points scored minus points conceded across all games played in the tournament.
5. Total Points Scored: If the tie still cannot be broken, the total points scored in all tournament games is used as the tiebreaker. The team that scored more points throughout the tournament is ranked higher.
6. Drawing of Lots: As a last resort, if all the above criteria fail to break the tie, a drawing of lots is conducted by the tournament committee.

Team Composition and Registration

Team Composition

1. Maximum Players: Teams are permitted to register up to a maximum of 18 players.
2. Minimum Players: The minimum number of players required for team registration is 10.

Team Registration Process

1. Submission Deadline: Teams must submit their entries three weeks prior to the commencement of their regional elimination rounds.
2. Registration Fee: A registration fee of P35,000 is required for each team to participate in the tournament.
3. Reservation Option: Teams may choose to secure their spot by paying a reservation fee of P10,000. This fee is part of the overall registration cost. 
4. Team Limitation: A limit of 16 teams per region will be enforced, adhering to a first-come, first-served basis. Priorities will be given to teams who are able to pay the tournament fee in full.  In case of excess registration, please refer to the Selection Process for Excess Registrations section above. 
5. Refund Policy for Non-Selected Teams: Teams that have paid the registration or reservation fee but do not make it to the final list of participants will receive a full refund within 14 days after the announcement of the final roster.
6. Payment Deadline: The complete registration fee must be settled no later than three weeks before the start of the regional games for each team.
7. Slot Forfeiture: Teams failing to complete payment of the registration fee by the deadline risk forfeiting their slot. In such cases, NIFA reserves the right to allocate the slot to another team.

How To Register

Online Registration and Payment

1. Registration and payment can be completed online at nifasports.com.
2. For a seamless process, payments via PayPal or Credit Card are recommended.
3. Alternatives like Gcash, Maya, over-the-counter payments, and cheques are also accepted. Account details are provided during checkout on the website. 
4. Cheque payments should be made payable to: NIFA Sports Management Corp. Please issue crossed cheques to ensure a secure bank deposit.
5. If payment is made through means other than PayPal or Credit Card, proof of payment should be emailed to info@nifasports.com or sent via our Facebook page at facebook.com/nifasports.

School and Player Documentation

Player Eligibility

1. Enrollment Requirement: Players must be currently enrolled in the school they represent.
2. Age Criteria: For Season 1, eligible players should be born no earlier than 1998.

Required Documents for Player Registration

1. Identification: Each participating student must submit the following documents:
   1. One of the following: Birth certificate, passport, or barangay certificate of residency. 
   2. A valid School ID.
2. Player Information: Each player must fill up and submit the following forms:
   1. Player information sheet. 
   2. Signed in the team waiver.
3. Parental Consent: Minors are required to submit a consent form signed by a parent or guardian. Non-minors have the option, but are not required, to submit parental consent.

School Documentation Requirements

1. Registration Form: Schools must complete and submit a school registration form.
2. Certificate of Enrollment (COE): A COE from the school’s registrar, signed by the head of the registrar, is required. The COE must list all participating players from the school.

Registration and Submission Process

1. Completion of Forms and Documents: Teams and players are required to complete all necessary forms and gather the required documents for submission.
2. Submission Channels: All forms and required documents must be submitted either by email at info@nifasports.com or through our Facebook page at facebook.com/nifasports.
3. Confirmation of Registration: Teams will receive an official confirmation once their registration and payment are successfully processed.

National Competition Entry Fee for Regional Champions

Entry Fee Context and Structure

1. Regional Competition Entry Fee: Recognizing the importance of inclusivity and broad participation, the entry fee for the regional competitions was intentionally set at a low rate of PHP 35,000. This decision reflects NIFA’s commitment to making the tournament accessible to a diverse range of schools and teams.
2. National Competition Entry Fee: The entry fee for the National Competition is PHP 35,000, consistent with the fee for the regional competitions. This uniformity in fee structure across both levels of the tournament underscores NIFA’s dedication to maintaining accessibility and fairness for all participating teams.
3. Rationale for the Fee: The entry fee for the National Competition, while mirroring the regional fee, is essential for facilitating the organization of a larger, more prestigious national-level event. It ensures that all participating teams can experience the heightened competitive atmosphere and quality of the National Competition.
4. Payment Deadline: The deadline for the payment of the National Competition entry fee is set at 2 weeks prior to the commencement of the event. This timeline is crucial for the final preparations and logistics of the National Competition.
5. Acknowledgment and Agreement: By paying the entry fee for the National Competition, teams acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of these terms. This fee is an integral part of participating in the National Competition, allowing NIFA to maintain high standards and offer a competitive and professionally organized basketball experience at the national level.

Equipment and Safety

Equipment Standards

1. Official Outfitter: Team Sure Win is the official outfitter of NIFA. All players and coaches are required to wear uniforms provided by Team Sure Win. You may order your uniform at their website www.teamsurewin.com or from their Facebook page facebook.com/teamsurewinph
2. Uniform Requirements: Each player must have at least two sets of uniforms: one for home games and one for away games.
   1. The home uniform should use the official colorway of the school.
   2. The away uniform must be predominantly white. Teams have the option to use only the white top for away games, while pairing it with the shorts of the home uniform.
3. All players must wear appropriate athletic attire, including non-slip shoes and team uniforms.
4. Protective gear such as mouthguards and knee pads is strongly recommended.
5. The playing court must be in good condition, with clear markings and free from hazards.

Safety Guidelines

1. Injury Protocols: A designated first-aid responder must be present at each game. Immediate medical attention should be provided for injured players, with play halted as necessary. Teams are required to report injuries to NIFA officials post-game. Players with significant injuries must submit medical clearance before resuming play.
2. Emergency Procedures: Venues must have accessible emergency exits and detailed emergency plans. Participants will receive briefings on emergency procedures before the tournament.
3. Security Officers: To further enhance the safety and security of all participants and attendees during live events, NIFA will ensure the presence of trained security officers or marshalls at each venue. These officers will be responsible for maintaining order, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and addressing any security concerns that may arise during the event.

Code of Conduct

1. For Players: Uphold sportsmanship on and off the court. Respect teammates, opponents, officials, and spectators. Follow the game rules and accept officials’ decisions. Engage in fair play; avoid cheating or unsportsmanlike conduct. Refrain from abusive language, physical violence, or derogatory comments.
2. For Coaches: Set a positive example in conduct. Provide constructive guidance, emphasizing skill development and fair competition. Respect officials’ decisions and communicate professionally. Ensure players understand and follow rules and safety standards.
3. For Officials: Remain impartial in all game decisions. Have a comprehensive understanding of the rules and apply them consistently. Communicate effectively and respectfully with players and coaches. Prioritize safety and fair play.
4. For Spectators: Respect all participants and officials. Avoid game interference or disruptive behavior. Support players positively, avoiding derogatory actions.
5. Prohibition of Gambling: NIFA strictly prohibits any form of gambling, betting, or wagering in relation to any aspect of the tournament, including games, player performance, or results. This applies to all participants, including players, coaches, officials, staff, and spectators. Any individual found participating in or facilitating gambling activities will face disciplinary action, which may include suspension, disqualification, or legal consequences. 
6. Enforcement and Penalties: Violations of these guidelines may result in warnings, game suspensions, or disqualification. NIFA officials have enforcement authority and will determine penalties based on violation severity.

Safety Communication and Awareness

NIFA is committed to educating all participants, including players, officials, and audience members, about our safety protocols and code of conduct. To achieve this:

1. Printed Materials: We will provide printed materials outlining the do’s and don’ts, safety protocols, and code of conduct. These will be prominently displayed at each venue, ensuring high visibility and accessibility for everyone at the event.
2. Digital Communication: The same information will be made available through digital mediums including our official website, social media platforms, and email communications. This ensures that all participants and attendees have access to important safety information before and during the event.
3. Announcements and Briefings: At the start of each event, there will be announcements and briefings to remind and inform everyone present about the safety protocols and behavioral expectations. This will reinforce the importance of adherence to these guidelines for the safety and enjoyment of all.
4. Training for Staff and Volunteers: All staff and volunteers involved in the event will receive training on these protocols and the code of conduct. They will be equipped to guide, assist, and inform participants and attendees throughout the event.

Sponsorship and Media

Overview

The National Intercollegiate Forum for Athletes (NIFA) offers distinct sponsorship opportunities at both National and Regional levels. Our sponsorship program is designed to cater to a wide range of businesses, from local enterprises seeking regional recognition to larger organizations aiming for national visibility.

National and Regional Sponsorships

1. National Level Sponsorships: Handled exclusively by NIFA, these sponsorships offer exposure across the country, suitable for businesses seeking a broad audience.
2. Regional Level Sponsorships: These provide local businesses the opportunity to gain visibility within their respective regions. It’s an excellent way for regional enterprises to connect with the community and support local sports.

Team Sponsorships and Financial Support

1. Autonomy in Securing Team Sponsors: Schools are encouraged to seek their own sponsors to help offset participation costs in the league. Teams are responsible for securing their own major and minor sponsors. However, these sponsors must be approved by NIFA and are subject to a sponsorship fee payable to NIFA. This is essential as the official uniform provider needs to incorporate the logos of these approved sponsors into the team uniforms and team profiles on our website.

Only the major and minor sponsors approved by NIFA will enjoy the benefits and visibility provided through the NIFA platform.

2. Major Team Sponsors: Teams can have up to two major sponsors, with each required to pay a sponsorship fee of 1,000 pesos to NIFA. Major sponsor logos will be featured on the right chest, left chest, and on the shorts above the player number on team uniforms. Their logos will also be seen on the team’s official page of our tournament website. 
3. Minor Team Sponsors: Up to five minor sponsors are allowed per team, with each sponsor required to pay a fee of 1,000 pesos to NIFA. Logos of minor sponsors will be placed in front of the uniform, below the player number. These sponsorships are ideal for smaller businesses seeking local or regional exposure. Their logos will also be seen on the team’s official page of our tournament website. 
4. Additional Team Sponsorships: Teams are free to acquire additional sponsors beyond those recognized by NIFA. These additional sponsors do not require disclosure to NIFA and are not bound by NIFA’s sponsorship fees or benefits. However, teams should ensure that these sponsorships are in alignment with NIFA’s values and do not conflict with the league’s interests.

Media and Publicity

1. Media Coverage: NIFA events may receive media coverage, providing additional exposure for recognized sponsors.
2. Promotional Opportunities: Sponsor logos may be included in NIFA promotional materials and media releases, subject to NIFA’s guidelines.

Compliance and Ethical Considerations

1. Sponsorship Approval: All NIFA-recognized sponsorships must be vetted and approved by NIFA. Teams must adhere to ethical standards in their sponsorship agreements.

Amendments and Interpretations

Amendments to Rules

1. Initiating Amendments: Proposals for amendments to the tournament rules can be initiated by NIFA officials, participating schools, or sponsors.All proposals must be submitted in writing to the NIFA Tournament Committee.
2. Review Process: The NIFA Tournament Committee will review all proposed amendments. This review process will consider the impact on fairness, safety, and the integrity of the tournament. Consultation with stakeholders, including coaches, players, and sponsors, may be part of the review.
3. Approval and Notification: Amendments require approval by a majority vote within the NIFA Tournament Committee. Upon approval, amendments will be communicated to all participating teams, officials, and stakeholders. The NIFA website (www.nifasports.com) will be updated with the revised rules.
4. Implementation: Amendments will typically come into effect at the start of the following season to provide adequate time for teams to adjust. In exceptional circumstances, amendments may be implemented immediately if deemed necessary for the tournament’s integrity.

Interpretation of Rules

1. Authority of NIFA: NIFA holds the ultimate authority in interpreting and applying the tournament rules. This includes making decisions on scenarios not explicitly covered by the existing rules.
2. Dispute Resolution: In the event of a dispute regarding rule interpretation, teams can submit a written query to the NIFA Tournament Committee.The Committee will provide a formal interpretation or ruling, which will be final and binding.
3. Consistency and Fairness: NIFA is committed to interpreting rules consistently and fairly to maintain the integrity of the competition. Regular training and briefings for officials will be conducted to ensure uniform understanding and application of the rules.
4. Transparency: NIFA will document and publish significant interpretations and rulings for transparency and future reference. This documentation will be accessible on the NIFA website.

Procedures for Player Eligibility Protests

1. Initiating a Protest: Protests regarding player eligibility must be submitted in writing to the NIFA Technical Committee. The protest must clearly state the grounds for questioning a player’s eligibility.
2. Protest Bond Fee: A protest bond fee of P1,000 is required to process the protest. This fee should accompany the written protest submission. If the protest is upheld, the bond will be returned to the protesting party. If the protest is not upheld, the bond is forfeited.
3. Evidence Submission: The protesting party is responsible for providing all relevant evidence to support their claim. This may include, but is not limited to, documents related to the player’s enrollment, age, or other eligibility criteria.
4. Timeframe for Protests: Protests must be lodged within 24 hours following the conclusion of the game in question. Late submissions will not be considered.
5. Scoresheet Marking: To officially record a protest, the team representative must sign the game’s scoresheet with a note stating “Game under protest”. This must be done immediately after the game before leaving the scorer’s table.
6. Review Process: The NIFA Technical Committee will review the protest and evidence provided. Decisions will be made based on the tournament’s eligibility rules and the evidence presented.
7. Notification of Decision: The decision of the NIFA Technical Committee will be communicated to the involved parties as soon as the review is completed. The decision is final and binding.

Affirmation of NIFA’s Commitment

NIFA’s Core Values

1. Integrity: NIFA upholds the highest standards of integrity in all aspects of the tournament. We believe in honesty and fair play, ensuring that the rules are applied consistently and transparently. Our commitment to integrity extends beyond the court, influencing our interactions with teams, partners, and the community.
2. Sportsmanship: Sportsmanship is at the heart of NIFA’s philosophy. We encourage all participants – players, coaches, officials, and spectators – to demonstrate respect, humility, and professionalism. Recognizing and applauding the efforts and achievements of others, regardless of the outcome, is integral to our culture.
3. Development of Basketball: NIFA is dedicated to the growth and development of basketball in the Philippines. We focus on nurturing young talent, providing platforms for athletes to showcase their skills and improve. Our initiatives extend to coaching development, support for basketball at the grassroots level, and partnerships that enhance the sport’s profile and accessibility.

NIFA’s Role in the Community

1. Promoting Inclusivity: NIFA is committed to creating an inclusive environment where athletes from diverse backgrounds can compete and excel. We strive to break down barriers to participation, ensuring basketball is accessible to all who wish to play.
2. Educational Impact: Recognizing the importance of education, NIFA emphasizes the student in student-athlete. We support the academic pursuits of our athletes, believing that success on the court goes hand in hand with success in the classroom.
3. Building Relationships: NIFA values the power of teamwork and community. We foster strong relationships with schools, sponsors, and organizations, working together to uplift the sport. Our partnerships, like those with Team Sure Win and other stakeholders, are vital in advancing our mission.
4. Looking Forward: As NIFA continues to grow, our commitment to these principles remains unwavering. We are dedicated to providing a positive, competitive, and enriching basketball experience for all involved. Together, we aim to celebrate the spirit of the game and inspire the next generation of basketball talent in the Philippines.

Acknowledgment and Agreement

1. Acknowledgment: By participating in the National Intercollegiate Forum for Athletes (NIFA) basketball tournament, all teams, players, coaches, officials, and associated staff hereby acknowledge their understanding of the rules and regulations as set forth in this document.
2. Agreement to Abide and Comply by the Rules: All participants agree to comply fully with the rules and regulations outlined in this document, including any future amendments. This includes adherence to the guidelines regarding player eligibility, team composition, safety and conduct, and the procedures for protests and rule interpretations.
3. Sportsmanship and Conduct: Participants commit to upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect throughout the tournament. This extends to interactions on the court, with officials, and between competing teams, as well as behavior off the court.
4. Responsibility for Understanding Rules: It is the responsibility of each team and individual participant to be fully aware of all the rules and regulations. Ignorance of the rules will not be considered a valid excuse for any breaches.
5. Acceptance of Decisions: All teams and participants agree to accept and respect the decisions made by NIFA officials, including interpretations of rules and outcomes of protests. Disputes must be addressed through the proper channels as outlined in the rules.
6. Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with these rules may result in penalties, including warnings, suspension from games, or disqualification from the tournament. Teams and individuals accept that any violations may lead to these consequences.
7. Signature Requirement: Each team is required to submit a signed acknowledgement form, confirming that all players, coaches, and staff have read, understood, and agreed to abide by these rules and regulations. This form must be submitted to NIFA officials before the commencement of the tournament.
8. Acknowledgment: By participating in the National Intercollegiate Forum for Athletes (NIFA) basketball tournament, all teams, players, coaches, officials, and associated staff hereby acknowledge their understanding of the rules and regulations as set forth in this document.
9. Agreement to Abide and Comply by the Rules: All participants agree to comply fully with the rules and regulations outlined in this document, including any future amendments. This includes adherence to the guidelines regarding player eligibility, team composition, safety and conduct, and the procedures for protests and rule interpretations.
10. Sportsmanship and Conduct: Participants commit to upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect throughout the tournament. This extends to interactions on the court, with officials, and between competing teams, as well as behavior off the court.
11. Responsibility for Understanding Rules: It is the responsibility of each team and individual participant to be fully aware of all the rules and regulations. Ignorance of the rules will not be considered a valid excuse for any breaches.
12. Acceptance of Decisions: All teams and participants agree to accept and respect the decisions made by NIFA officials, including interpretations of rules and outcomes of protests. Disputes must be addressed through the proper channels as outlined in the rules.
13. Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with these rules may result in penalties, including warnings, suspension from games, or disqualification from the tournament. Teams and individuals accept that any violations may lead to these consequences.

Signature Requirement: Each team is required to submit a signed acknowledgement form, confirming that all players, coaches, and staff have read, understood, and agreed to abide by these rules and regulations. This form must be submitted to NIFA officials before the commencement of the tournament.