Ricky Palou, owner of the Alas Women’s basketball program, recently addressed questions surrounding the team’s upcoming tryouts, emphasizing that the selection process is by invitation only and not open to all aspiring players.

The announcement comes after social media and word-of-mouth suggested that anyone interested could attend the tryouts. Palou explained that the program is seeking athletes who meet specific criteria, including skill, experience, and readiness to compete at a high level.

“These tryouts are not open to everybody,” Palou said. “We are looking for players who have the ability, experience, and mindset to contribute right away. Our goal is to assemble a team capable of performing at the top level, and we have to be selective to maintain that standard.”

The Alas Women program has steadily built a reputation for developing elite female basketball talent in the Philippines. According to Palou, the tryouts focus on more than just basic skills. Coaches evaluate technical ability, decision-making, athleticism, and teamwork, ensuring that players can integrate quickly and effectively into the roster.

“We want to create a team where every player can perform at their best,” Palou explained. “Inviting everyone would dilute the level of play and slow down the development of athletes who are already part of the program.”

Palou also addressed the growing enthusiasm for women’s basketball in the country, acknowledging that interest from aspiring athletes is encouraging. At the same time, he stressed that the program’s approach is centered on quality over quantity.

“We are thrilled that so many young women want to pursue basketball,” he said. “But we have to be careful to maintain a competitive environment. That means evaluating players carefully and ensuring they meet our standards.”

The tryouts, scheduled in the coming weeks, will target athletes who have proven themselves in collegiate or semi-professional leagues. Evaluations will include drills, scrimmages, and assessments to determine which players will earn a spot on the roster.

For those not selected, Palou noted that the program offers alternative development opportunities. “Even if a player doesn’t make it this time, there are clinics, workshops, and training programs to help them improve and grow,” he said.

The clarification was also intended to address confusion among fans and prospective participants. Palou said clear communication about the selection process is important to avoid misunderstandings.

“Our intention is not to discourage anyone,” he said. “We want players to know that there are pathways to grow in the sport, but joining this program requires meeting a certain level of competitiveness. That’s what allows us to maintain a high standard.”

Looking ahead, Palou said the program remains focused on building a strong, competitive team for the next season. By keeping tryouts selective, Alas Women can continue attracting top talent and contribute to the overall growth of women’s basketball in the Philippines.

“Being part of this team is about more than just showing up,” Palou said. “It’s about skill, commitment, and the drive to compete. That’s the message we want all aspiring players to understand.”

As the tryouts approach, invited players will have the chance to demonstrate their abilities, while the program continues its mission of nurturing elite female basketball talent. For Palou and Alas Women, the focus is clear: select carefully, develop thoroughly, and compete at the highest level.