Manny Pacquiao formally rolled out the Junior Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League with the hopes of becoming the breeding ground of future professional players.

In a press briefing, Pacquiao said the league aims to discover and develop young talents not just from Metro Manila but around the country as well.

A total of 22 out of the league's 29 teams will field entries in the 18-under, 16-under and 14-under events.

"This is their opportunity for those youngsters to showcase their talents. It will have a home and away format," Pacquiao said.

"Showing what they can do here could help them play professionally in the future."

Pacquiao, an eight-time world champion boxer, said the Junior MPBL will not just give young players exposure but will also mold them into becoming productive citizens.

"To the young athletes, I want you to know that this league is for you. It is a platform for you to showcase your skills and to learn from the best coaches in the country," Pacquiao said.

"Let us altogether empower the youth to become the best versions of themselves. Let us make Junior MPBL a league of champions — both on and off the court."

Quezon City 828 Junior Giants and the Malabon Fisher Mall tipped things off and are still competing at press time.