Learning experience for Wilcon Depot in PBA 3x3 debut

Terence Tumalip

The inaugural 3x3 leg for newcomers Wilcon Depot at the PBA 3x3 Season 3 First Conference can be chalked to learning experience.

The new side in 3x3 basketball fell short of making an impact at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay, coughing up in the quarterfinals against Terrafirma, 18-20. TH Tumalip led Wilcon Depot in the loss with seven points and six rebounds, with Yutien Andrada adding four markers.

Keith Datu was limited to three points and a couple of rebounds, while Ael Banal misfired by connecting on just 3/13 from the field.

Although encouraged, coach Anton Altamirano cited the quartet's lack of condition as a factor for their exit, noting that it will motivate them to do better in the next legs. He says, "It was a tough reality check for us. We're still not in game shape and it only tells us that we need to strive harder if we want to progress further."

Wilcon Depot did top Pool B, winning all three of its assignments. They stunned Cavitex, 18-16, then taking care of business against Purefoods (18-13), and San Miguel (21-16).

They have a chance to bounce back with the second leg taking place next week, July 10-11, at the Ayala Malls Circuit in Makati.