Sizzling shoots secures Japan gold in Women's 3x3, sends Gilas Women to silver medal finish

c/o POC/PSC Media

Yuki Hirashita delivered a cold-blooded dagger with 31.2 seconds left, sealing Japan’s 21-11 triumph over the Gilas Pilipinas women in the 3x3 basketball final of the 20th Asian Games on Friday night.

Kacey Dela Rosa was a force in the middle as the Gilas women fought with unmistakable grit, but Japan’s precision proved too sharp and steady in front of a sizeable hometown gallery at the Kinjo Futo Station Square Venue.

Dela Rosa had six points, three blocks and three rebounds and Amyah Espanol and KA Kennan added three and two points each as the Philippines settled for its second silver medal in the Games.

``Honestly, I feel bad because I couldn’t lead them to the gold. They really deserved to win that. Sa lahat ng sakripisyo, lahat ng hard work, I really believe they deserve it,’’ said Gilas women coach Anton Altamirano.

``But we’re still happy to bring a medal home for the country. I believe we gave our best in the tournament, we just really fell short in this gold-medal match,’’ he added.

Hirashita, calm and calculating, orchestrated the offense with veteran poise, finishing with nine points and five rebounds.

Equally devastating was Sakura Horiuchi, whose eight points and seven rebounds provided Japan with a bruising interior anchor.

Together, Hirashita and Horiuchi formed a punishing one two punch that dictated the tempo from start to finish.

Japan’s dominance was no surprise to those who witnessed its semifinal demolition of Korea, a 19 8 masterclass that underscored its status as the continent’s 3x3 powerhouse.

Gilas, meanwhile, earned its place in the finale with a gritty victory over Thailand in the other semis clash.

The PH men’s 3x3 squad missed the podium after South Korea ruled their bronze-medal match, 21-9, earlier.

Gilas women may have missed the ultimate prize, but their spirited stand against Asia’s elite delivered a silver lining for the nation after tough losses on the men’s side and in both five on five campaigns.

Gilas complete sweep in Asiad Men's 3x3 pool play

c/o POC/PSC Media

Gilas Pilipinas Men 3x3 completed a flawless group stage campaign to barge into the quarterfinals of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, fending off Kazakhstan, 21-15, on Wednesday at the Kinjo Futo Station Square Venue in Japan.

With the victory -- the Filipinos' third straight counting wins against Asian No. 1 Mongolia (19-12) and Sri Lanka (21-12) -- Gilas finished on top of Pool A, officially securing their spot in the quarters.

Composed of La Salle's Luis Pablo and Doy Dungo, Santo Tomas' Koji Buenaflor and Binan Tatak Gel's Nic Cabanero, the team will take on Chinese Taipei at 5:30 p.m. (Philippine time) on Thursday.

"Nandito na," said coach Patrick Fran, pointing to his bag containing the scouting report and video materials on the Taiwanese. "Ready na."

Kazakhstan caught the Philippines—supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission—napping early, jumping out to a 4-1 lead powered by a two-pointer from Timur Tangiyev.

But Gilas quickly regained control behind a strong putback from Buenaflor, highlighted earlier by an emphatic two-handed slam, and a timely two-pointer from Cabañero to construct a 13-9 lead.

Although Kazakhstan pulled within one at 13-12 following a basket by Artur Junussov, Gilas responded with a key 8-3 closing run to seal the win with 33 seconds remaining.

The late surge was spearheaded by collegiate teammates Pablo and Dungo, who erupted with five of Gilas' final eight points, finishing the contest with six points, three rebounds, and two assists.

Cabañero again anchored the scoring with seven points, three rebounds, and an assist, an impressive feat considering he was nursing a sprained, swollen right hand he suffered during Gilas' game against Mongolia on Monday.

Pablo provided five points, while Buenaflor contributed three points to round out the balanced attack.

Timur Tangiyev led Kazakhstan with six points and eight rebounds as his squad fell to 1-2 in group play.

Mansur Seilkhanov contributed four points, with Junussov and Alizhan Ydyryszhan adding three and two points, respectively.

Gilas Women 3x3 secure back-to-back wins in Asiad pool play

c/o POC/PSC Media

Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3x3 team opened its Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games campaign with a bang on Tuesday, stunning powerhouse Mongolia, 17-12, before routing Macau, 21-4, at the Kinjo Futo Station Square Venue here.

Kacey Dela Rosa overcame an early ankle injury to lead the Philippines past the higher-ranked Mongolians, before the nationals carried the momentum into their second game to sweep their opening assignments in Group C.

The 2-0 start assured Gilas Women of a place in the play-ins, while keeping its sights on the group’s top seed, which comes with a direct berth in the quarterfinals. The strong opening also mirrored the unbeaten start of the Philippine men’s 3x3 team in its own campaign.

Dela Rosa shook off a right-ankle sprain suffered just two minutes into the opening game and returned to dominate inside, finishing with 10 points and three rebounds.

"It (injury) is not an excuse para mag-stop sa paglaban. I came back and we got the win," the 22-year-old Dela Rosa said in an interview with One Sports.

"I saw my team and the opponents were up already, parang doon na nag-click na they need me inside. Kaya 'yun, I tied my shoes and came back in," added the Ateneo standout, who was part of the Philippines’ gold medal-winning 3x3 team at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.

With Dela Rosa controlling the paint, the nationals erased an 8-5 deficit and unleashed a 10-3 run to move ahead, 15-11, with 1:03 left before holding off the Mongolians the rest of the way.

Kennan Ka added three points, while Amyah Espanol and Victoria Pasilang contributed two apiece to secure the victory for coach Anton Altamirano’s squad.

"Mongolia is one of the top teams in the world... And the first game's always the hardest, but we were able to really manage good possessions, especially when Kacey was down. We made really good stops to get the victory," said Altamirano, who also praised Dela Rosa for battling through the injury.

"She's a tough girl. She's been through stuff like this. It's a testament to her character and mental toughness," he added.

Pasilang and Ka took charge in the second game as the Philippines dismantled Macau, with Pasilang pouring in eight points and Ka seven, as Dela Rosa was given limited playing time.

Dela Rosa still chipped in four points, though, while Espanol delivered an all-around performance with two points, eight rebounds and five assists to complete the sweep.

The Gilas Women will shoot for the No. 1 seed on Wednesday when they face fellow unbeaten Malaysia at 5:05 p.m.

Malaysia also finished opening day at 2-0 after beating Macau, 14-3, and Mongolia, 17-11. 

The Philippines, however, sits atop Group C by virtue of a superior point differential.

Gilas seeks sweep in Asiad men's 3x3 pool play

c/o POC/PSC Media

Gilas Pilipinas Men’s 3x3 Team tries to keep the Philippine basketball campaign alive in the 20th Asian Games when they face Kazakhstan on Wednesday.

Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 is coming off a 2-0 start after beating Asian no. 1 Mongolia, 19-12, and Sri Lanka, 21-12, on the opening day of competition at Kinjo Futo Station Square as it heads into the crucial Pool A match.

A win over Kazakhstan at 12:15 p.m. would give the Philippines a sweep of the elimination round and an outright ticket to the quarterfinals, bringing the young squad one step closer to a medal.

Kazakhstan lost to Mongolia after beating Sri Lanka in the first two games of the tournament to end up with a 1-1 record.

Nic Cabañero of the Binan Tatak Gel team in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, has been the main man in Gilas’ hot start, scoring seven points against Mongolia before adding another eight against Sri Lanka. Timely scoring from Santo Tomas’ Koji Buenaflor and Luis Pablo of La Salle has also helped, but the Filipinos’ defensive pressure has enabled them to dictate the tempo in both games.

Cabañero, Buenaflor, Pablo and Doy Dungo, also of La Salle, arrived in Nagoya after just about a month of preparation but their familiarity from the UAAP and other competitions has helped them quickly develop chemistry.

The Philippines also comes into Wednesday’s game on the back of a rise to No. 27 in the world men’s 3x3 rankings, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas said.

But the Filipinos are not assuming anything.

“Dito sa 3x3, anybody can beat anyone, so we consider everyone a threat,” Pablo said.

That mindset could be important against Kazakhstan as Gilas seeks not only to finish the pool stage unbeaten.

China shattered the defending champion 5x5 team's bid to retain its title, beating the Philippines, 105-61, in the preliminary round. The 44-point drubbing ended the Philippines' hopes of repeating their Hangzhou triumph.

Gilas 3x3 secures strong start in Asian Games

GILAS Pilipinas Men’s 3x3 Team buckled down to business on opening day, sweeping its first two assignments in a blazing Group A start in the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 on Monday.

The young Philippine side, composed of players from the UAAP and MPBL, opened its campaign with a 19-12 triumph over Mongolia, one of the established powers in the Asian 3x3 basketball scene.

Facing a Mongolian team with a strong reputation in the region, the newly assembled Filipino squad showed little hesitation, controlling the half-court from start to finish.

The Philippines shot an impressive 55 percent from the field despite windy conditions, more than twice Mongolia’s 27 percent, while also winning the rebounding battle, 22-18.

Nic Cabanero, who plays for the Binan Tatak Gel in the MPBL, spearheaded the Philippine attack, while UST’s Koji Buenaflor was flawless from the 1-point line, converting all six of his attempts.

The Filipinos carried the momentum into their second game, overwhelming Sri Lanka after a slow start to win, 21-12, and complete a perfect opening day.

“We just needed to stay composed. ‘Yung defense talaga nagdala sa panalo. Nakita natin, we struggled at the start, but it’s not how you start the game, but how you finish,” said the 6’3” Cabanero.

With its defense finally clicking, Gilas needed only seven minutes and 12 seconds to reach the 21-point target, shooting a sizzling 67 percent from the field in an efficient offensive display.

Cabanero again led the charge with eight points and six rebounds, while La Salle forward Manuel Pablo and Buenaflor added six points apiece.

The Philippine men’s team now turns its attention to Kazakhstan on Wednesday, with a victory securing them a place in the quarterfinals.

“Grateful kami that we got the 2-0 win, but this is the crucial part na, ‘yung quick turnaround heading into the next game, we have to move on because it’s just the beginning,” said the 6’7” Pablo.

UAAP adjusts basketball schedule to accommodate national team commitments

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines is adjusting its September schedule for both the collegiate men’s and women’s basketball tournaments to accommodate Gilas Pilipinas’ campaigns in the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, and the FIBA 3x3 Under-23 World Cup 2026 in Wuhan, China.

“The support of the UAAP is important to our national team programs, especially with so many of our student-athletes being called up to represent the country,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy.

“We appreciate the UAAP for working closely with us and for making the necessary adjustments to accommodate our national team commitments. This kind of partnership allows our athletes to compete for both their schools and the Philippines with the support they need.”

As such, there will only be five gamedays from September 13 to 30.

“We have always believed that the UAAP’s mission goes beyond the competition. We are here to develop student-athletes who can represent our schools, but we are equally proud when they get the opportunity to represent the country,” said UAAP Season 89 President Mark Molina of Far Eastern University.

“The UAAP will always support all our national teams, and we are willing to adjust our schedules whenever necessary to give our student-athletes the opportunity to serve the Philippines.”

The UAAP Season 89 opening ceremony will be held on September 12 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with Vice Ganda and Gloc-9 headlining the festivities.

The first gameday will be on September 13, 2026, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum, with FEU facing Adamson University at 12 p.m., followed by defending champion De La Salle University taking on National University at 2:30 p.m. in a rematch of last season’s Final Four.

University of the Philippines will then square off against University of Santo Tomas at 6 p.m. Separate tickets will be sold for the UP-UST game.

On September 16 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Ateneo de Manila University and University of the East will make their season debuts at 3 p.m., followed by De La Salle versus UST at 5:30 p.m.

September 19 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum will see National University take on UE at 3 p.m., followed by the Round 1 of the Battle of Katipunan between Ateneo and UP at 5:30 p.m.

September 26 will feature another triple-header at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with Ateneo facing Adamson at 12 p.m., UE taking on FEU at 2:30 p.m., and UP squaring off against NU at 6 p.m. Separate tickets will be sold for the UP-NU game.

To close the month on September 30, Adamson will face UST at 3 p.m., followed by FEU versus La Salle at 5:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The schedules of FEU, Adamson, UST, and La Salle have been adjusted as FEU’s Cabs Cabonilas and Jedric Daa, along with Adamson’s Earl Medina, are set to compete in the FIBA 3x3 Under-23 World Cup, which runs from September 15 to 19.

Meanwhile, La Salle’s Luis Pablo and Doy Dungo, along with UST’s Koji Buenaflor, will suit up for Gilas Pilipinas in the Asian Games, which will be held from September 21 to 25.

Gilas 3x3 U23 Men are slotted with Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and Sri Lanka in Pool A of the Asian Games.

The collegiate women’s basketball tournament will also have a late start as the Gilas Pilipinas teams for the Asian Games — both 5-on-5 and 3x3 — and the Under-23 World Cup are expected to be composed largely of UAAP student-athletes.

“We are very grateful to the UAAP for its understanding and support of our 3x3 program and our national team athletes,” said SBP 3x3 basketball program director Ryan Gregorio.

“These student-athletes are not only representing their respective schools but also the Philippines, and the UAAP’s willingness to adjust its calendar allows them to prepare and compete for the country without having to choose between their national team duties and their commitments to their schools.”

Gilas 3x3 earn FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup berth

c/o Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas

Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Men capped off a remarkable campaign in the 2026 FIBA 3x3 Nations League Asia 2 competitions by securing a berth in the 2026 FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup after a dominant run in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

Competing against fellow Under-21 teams from Japan, New Zealand, Belarus, Singapore, and Malaysia, the Philippines reached the finals in five of the six stops, winning three en route to the first-place finish.

Gilas started their campaign with back-to-back wins, but they suffered a tight loss to Belarus in the Stop 1 Finals. After missing out on a podium finish for Stop 2, Gilas bounced back big time by beating Japan to win Stop 3. The young Filipino ballers made sure there was no doubt about who the best team was as they defeated New Zealand and Japan to win Stops 4 and 5 via game-winning two-point baskets.

The Philippines finished with 520 points in the tournament, 50 points clear of second-place Japan, to earn a spot in the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup, marking another significant milestone for the SBP’s rapidly growing 3x3 program.

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy emphasized that the accomplishment reflects the federation's continued investment in the 3x3 discipline and the willingness of stakeholders across Philippine basketball to work together in developing national teams.

“Earlier this year, our Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Women ended an eight-year drought to make it back to the FIBA 3x3 World Cup. Now Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Men will also end their own eight-year drought to make it back to the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup,” said Dy. “This achievement is further proof that Filipinos are world-class not just in basketball but also in 3x3. With the support of our sponsors and the commitment of stakeholders, the SBP will continue to put our athletes in positions to succeed.”

Back in 2018, the group composed of RJ Abarrientos, Ricci Rivero, Rhayyan Amsali, and Jeepy Faundo finished with a 2-2 record in the pool stage to finish ninth overall out of 20 teams.

"On behalf of the SBP 3x3 program, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the schools, coaches, and team officials who supported Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 by allowing their players to represent the country,” added Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Program Director Ryan Gregorio.

“We are especially thankful to FEU Athletic Director Mark Molina and Coach Sean Chambers, who deliberately rescheduled their team’s USA training so that Cabs Cabonilas and Jedric Daa could compete in this tournament. Our sincere appreciation also goes to Boss Alfrancis Chua and Coach Pido Jarencio for generously loaning UST big man Koji Buenaflor, to Adamson head coach Nash Racela for immediately allowing Earl Medina to join the national team, and to team manager Jude Roque and Coach Yuri Escueta for permitting Jhun Dela Rama to represent Gilas even while he is in residency. Their trust, cooperation, and shared commitment to Philippine basketball embody the spirit of ‘one team, one country.’ We truly appreciate their invaluable support.”

Program partner Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation and NLEX also lauded the team's achievement, highlighting the value of supporting the country's rising basketball talents on the international stage.

“We at MPTC and NLEX send our congratulations to the Gilas 3x3 Men after their successful campaign in Malaysia,” said NLEX Governor Ronald Dulatre. “We’re happy to support the SBP’s 3x3 Program from the youth teams all the way to the elite because the goal remains to be an Olympic slot for the Philippines, and investing in our young talent will pay more dividends in the future.”

With a place in the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup now secured, Gilas Pilipinas turns its attention toward competing against the world's best from September 15–19 in Wuhan, China, and continuing the country’s upward trajectory in international 3x3 basketball.

Kacey dela Rosa to be honored at Collegiate Press Corps Awards

ATENEO de Manila University's Kacey dela Rosa will receive a special citation at the Collegiate Press Corps Awards Night presented by Strong Group Athletics after delivering historic performances for Gilas Pilipinas in both 5-on-5 and 3x3 basketball.

A two-time UAAP MVP, Dela Rosa has already established herself as one of the best athletes to come out of Katipunan in recent years, and her greatness will be hailed at the annual awards night to be held at Discovery Suites Manila.

After helping Ateneo secure a bronze-medal finish in UAAP Season 88 in her fourth year with the Blue Eagles, she turned her attention to the international stage, representing the Philippines and making her mark in both formats of the game.

Dela Rosa, who was also named to the Collegiate Women's Basketball Mythical Team, will be honored alongside the top performers in basketball, volleyball, and football from the UAAP and NCAA during the Awards Night, which is also supported by Converge FiberX, San Miguel Corporation, the Philippine Sports Commission, Go For Gold, D'Generals, and Buffalo Wings 'N Things.

Last December, Dela Rosa was among the anchors of the Gilas Pilipinas Women's team that reclaimed the gold medal at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, where she manned the center position in the absence of long-time Gilas stalwart Jack Animam.

She then followed it up with another gutsy performance at the 2027 FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament in France, where the Philippines notched its first win in an OQT against Colombia.

Dela Rosa was the team's leading scorer and rebounder in the tournament, averaging 15.6 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. She also normed 2.2 blocks per contest.

But perhaps Dela Rosa's biggest impact came in 3x3, where she played a key role in leading the Philippines to its best-ever result in a FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup after winning silver with Gilas in early April.

In five games en route to the runner-up finish, Dela Rosa posted averages of 6.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.

They then followed it up with an inspiring performance in the World Cup qualifiers in Singapore, where the Gilas women sealed their second appearance in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup.

Dela Rosa most recently saw action in the World Cup in Warsaw, Poland, where she and teammates Afril Bernardino, Camille Clarin, and Mikka Cacho scored a big win over Italy for the country's first-ever victory in the Women's FIBA 3x3 World Cup.

Ateneo, La Salle remain undefeated in UAAP 3x3 Men's Basketball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Collegiate 3x3 Standings

Men’s 

Ateneo 3-0
DLSU 3-0
ADU 2-1
UP 2-1
FEU 1-2
NU 1-2
UE 0-3
UST 0-3

Women’s

UST 3-0
ADU 2-1
Ateneo 2-1
FEU 2-1
DLSU 1-2
NU 1-2
UE 1-2
UP 0-3

Defending UAAP Collegiate Men’s 3x3 champion De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University remained the only unbeaten teams after three games on Tuesday at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

The Green Archers routed the National University Bulldogs, 21-13, behind Luis Pablo, who led the charge with eight points and five rebounds. Doy Dungo and Jcee Macalalag added six and five points, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Blue Eagles cruised past the winless University of the East Red Warriors, 21-14, to share the lead with their archrivals in the tournament supported by Wilson Philippines and Ayala Malls and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Andrew Bongo scored eight points, Shawn Tuano had seven, while Kyle Gamber chipped in five for Ateneo.

“We’re just trying to make the school proud. Too many years, even in 5-on-5, not even a Final Four placement,” said Tuano. “We’re just here, trying to bring something home and just trying to make the school proud.

“We have one goal in mind: bring home that gold. We want to bring that championship back to Ateneo; we will try to do that,” he added, noting that the last time Ateneo won the 3x3 crown was in UAAP Season 81, when the sport was still a demonstration event.

In other men’s games, Miguel Yñiguez and Noah Pacquiao delivered game-winners to lift University of the Philippines and Adamson University to a share of third place with identical 2-1 records.

For the second straight game, Yñiguez knocked down a game-winning deuce, lifting the Fighting Maroons past the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in overtime, 20-18. He finished with 10 points and 12 rebounds, while LA Andres added eight points.

On the other hand, Pacquiao drained a corner deuce — his 10th point of the game — at the buzzer to carry the Soaring Falcons to a 20-18 win over the still winless University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers.

FEU and NU slipped to 1-2 heading into Day 3 on Thursday.

Meanwhile, in the women’s division, the battle of unbeatens between the Growling Tigresses and the Lady Tamaraws turned into a lopsided affair, with UST cruising to a 13-2 win for its third straight victory.

Kent Pastrana led the way with five points and nine rebounds, Brigette Santos added four points, while Coi Danganan chipped in three in the rout.

“So lucky to be playing with her in her last tournament here in the UAAP,” said Fil-Australian rookie Erinn Mcalary on being able to team up with Pastrana before she moves on to the next chapter of her career. “It’s more motivation for us to play well in this tournament and hopefully win this to send her off properly.”

The loss dropped the Lady Tamaraws into a tie for second with the Blue Eagles, who defeated the Fighting Maroons, 14-8, and the Lady Falcons, who edged the Lady Archers, 19-17.

Kacey dela Rosa and Kai Oani scored all of Ateneo’s points with eight and six, respectively.

Elaine Etang poured in nine points in Adamson’s win, while Cheska Apag added six.

Meanwhile, the Lady Bulldogs notched their first win of the tournament despite fielding just three players, defeating the Lady Warriors, 19-16.

Aloha Betanio and Samantha Medina finished with eight and seven points, respectively, while Bonie Solis added four.

Tiger Cubs snap Baby Tams 24-game streak in UAAP U19 Boys 3x3 Basketball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 High School 3x3 Basketball Standings

19U Boys’
UST 3-0
NUNS 2-1
FEU-D 2-1
DLSZ 2-1
UE 1-2
ADU 1-2
UPIS 1-2
Ateneo 0-3

16u Boys’
FEU-D 3-0
UST 2-1
Ateneo 2-1
DLSZ 2-1
ADU 1-2
UE 1-2
NUNS 1-2
UPIS 0-3

University of Santo Tomas took solo lead in the UAAP Season 88 19-and-under 3x3 basketball tournament after pulling off two thrilling wins on Tuesday at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

The Tiger Cubs ended the 24-game winning streak of defending champions FEU-Diliman Baby Tamaraws with a 21-18 victory to open their day, before following it up with a 21-16 win over the DLSZ Junior Archers. With those results, UST remained the only unbeaten team in the tournament, which is supported by Wilson Philippines and Ayala Malls and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Kirk Cañete led the charge against FEU-D, going a perfect 4-of-4 from the field, including 2-of-2 from beyond the arc, finishing with 10 points, while Joaqui Ludovice added seven.

Ludovice then took over against DLSZ, finishing with nine points, while Jettlee Melano and Cañete chipped in five points apiece.

“Happy po kami as a team kasi nagtulong-tulungan kami. Lahat ito, pinaghandaan kami,” said Ludovice, the 5-foot-9 guard who is in Grade 11 but will age out of the league’s high school competitions in UAAP Season 89. “Pero hindi pa kami ganoon kasaya kasi hindi pa namin naabot yung pinaka goal namin, which is yung championship. Happy kami pero hindi pa kami kuntento.”

For Ludovice, winning the 3x3 tournament would be a perfect cap to their high school run after finishing sixth in the 5-on-5 competition last March.

“Sineseryoso namin ito kasi ito yung comeback namin from 5-on-5. UAAP pa rin ito at parehong championship pa rin ang pinaglalabanan dito,” said Joaqui, the younger brother of former San Beda Red Lion Yvan Ludovice.

The middle of the standings remains tightly packed, with FEU-D, National University Nazareth School, and De La Salle-Zobel all holding 2-1 records.

Cabs Cabonilas powered FEU-D with 11 points and 11 rebounds in a 21-13 bounce-back win over Ateneo.

Meanwhile, University of the Philippines Integrated School leaned on the duo of Jhustin Hallare and Bruce Tubongbanua, who both scored nine points, in a 22-20 stunner over NUNS. However, NUNS responded later in the day with a 21-11 rout of Adamson.

Niño Ferrer then scored a deuce in overtime to lift DLSZ to a 20-18 win over Ateneo, helping the Junior Archers rebound.

Adamson, UE, and UPIS are all at 1-2, while Ateneo remains winless in the division.

In the 16-and-under division, defending champion Ateneo—coming off a 21-17 win over UE earlier in the day—saw its 10-game winning streak snapped after FEU-Diliman pulled off a 21-15 victory.

Prince Cariño dominated the match, finishing with 13 points and eight rebounds.

The Baby Tamaraws also cruised in their first game of the day, defeating Adamson 21-13 behind nine points from Dwayne Enriquez and seven from Cariño to move to 3-0 in the division.

Ateneo, UST, and DLSZ are all at 2-1, while Adamson, UE, and NUNS sit at 1-2. UPIS remains winless.

The Junior Tiger Cubs also went 2-0 for the day, scoring wins over NUNS (21-16) and UPIS (21-13).

Miguel Jubilado and CJ Tabbuga scored eight and seven points, respectively, against the Bullpups, while Tabbuga added nine points and Dave Regala contributed seven points and nine rebounds against the Fighting Maroons.

DLSZ, which started the day with a 21-20 escape over UPIS, suffered a 19-15 upset loss to NUNS—the Bullpups’ first win of the tournament.

Junior Archers head trainer Joshua Webb said his squad needs to experience both highs and lows to grow in the competition.

“Just a few tweaks and adjustments here and there, but that’s going to come. 3x3 is a different animal from 5-on-5, and it’s our job to teach them that,” said Webb, a DLSZ legend and former Philippine-ranked 3x3 player during his stint with Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3.

The Junior Warriors finally broke through with their first win, edging the Adamson Baby Falcons 19-17 in overtime as James Mesa nailed the game-winning deuce.

The tournament will resume on Thursday, with the high school girls’ competition also set to begin on the same day.

Dela Rosa, Apag seek to build on FIBA 3x3 experience onto UAAP 3x3

c/o UAAP

Two weeks after making Philippine 3x3 history, Kacey dela Rosa and Cheska Apag return to familiar ground to lead their respective universities in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s 3x3 Basketball Tournament, which begins today (Monday) at Ayala Malls By The Bay.

Dela Rosa and Apag were part of the Gilas Women’s squad that captured silver in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup. Dela Rosa, together with UAAP alums Afril Bernardino, Mikka Cacho, and Tantoy Ferrer, also helped the Philippines punch its ticket to the 3x3 World Cup.

“I’m super excited, of course. Coming from the FIBA Asia Cup and World Cup Qualifiers, I know I learned a lot from those tournaments, and you know I’m just excited to share it with my teammates on the court,” said Dela Rosa.

She will be joined by 5-on-5 Rookie of the Year Erica De Luna, Kai Oani, Lauren Lopez, and Hannah Lopez as Ateneo de Manila University opens its campaign against two former champions, University of Santo Tomas at 12:40 p.m., followed by National University at 3:20 p.m.

Now, Dela Rosa is focused on anchoring the Blue Eagles’ title-retention bid in the three-a-side game.

“Whenever I play naman, for Gilas especially, you know, for Ateneo, I’m super competitive talaga. Siguro kasi nakasanayan na talaga eh. I came from Chiang Kai Shek kasi, and I guess dun ko parang na-adapt yung mindset na ganun. Gusto ko lagi manalo or mag champion kahit anong team pa yan,” she added.

Adamson University’s Cheska Apag, meanwhile, will be joined by Elaine Etang, Jam Meniano, Niclen Manlimos, and Nadine Muñoz as they look to bounce back into podium contention after missing out last season.

The women’s division is expected to be highly competitive, with UST, NU, and University of the Philippines fielding loaded squads.

The Growling Tigresses, reigning 5-on-5 champions, will be led by Kent Pastrana, who will be representing UST for the final time in this tournament. She will be joined by Brigette Santos, Karylle Sierba, Coi Danganan, and Erinn McAlary.

UAAP Season 86 Girls' 3x3 MVP Cielo Pagdulagan will spearhead the Lady Bulldogs, alongside Dindy Medina, Aloha Betanio, Bonie Solis, and Samantha Medina, as NU looks to rebound after missing the podium last season.

Louna Ozar will lead the Cacho-trained Fighting Maroons and will be flanked by Camille Nolasco, Achrissa Maw, Shane Cunanan, and Marielle Vingno.

The rivalry clash between UST and NU is set for April 30 at 6 p.m.

On the collegiate men’s side, De La Salle University is eyeing a fourth straight 3x3 crown in this tournament supported by Wilson Philippines and Ayala Malls, and is sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Seniors Earl Abadam and Jcee Macalalag return, teaming up with reigning MVP Doy Dungo, EJ Gollena, and Luis Pablo.

“We take it with pride and honor to have the chance to bring La Salle a fourth 3x3 championship this year. This one will mean a lot to Jcee and me since it will be our last year playing and wearing a La Salle jersey,” said Abadam, who is aiming for his fifth overall UAAP title.

Last season’s silver medalists, the Growling Tigers, will bring back Amiel Acido, Gelo Crisostomo, and Ice Danting, along with rookies Carl Manding and Koji Buenaflor.

Crisostomo is currently in Sanya, China, representing the Philippines in the 3x3 competition of the 6th Asian Beach Games.

Last season's bronze medalists, the Soaring Falcons, will feature Allen Perez, AJ Fransman, Joshua Barcelona, Mat Edding, and Noah Pacquiao.

After finishing in the lower half of the standings last season, the Nico Salva-mentored Blue Eagles will field a deep lineup with Andrew Bongo, Shawn Tuano, Kyle Gamber, Alden Cainglet, and Thirdy Ebdane.

La Salle opens its title defense against Adamson at 2 p.m.

Cabs Cabonilas, the history-maker who won both regular season and Finals MVPs last March, will lead FEU-Diliman’s “three-peat” bid alongside Marc Burgos, JB Cagurungan, Sam Hall, and Adrian Alabagan.

The NU-Nazareth School Bullpups, looking to avenge their 5-on-5 loss to the Baby Tamaraws, will be composed of Kurl Figueroa, Miekho Natinga, Chad Cartel, Sofiane Bouzina, and Rhon-J Matias.

The Junior Growling Tigresses, meanwhile, like their seniors, are eyeing a “golden double” with Lea Pinuela, Katrina Insoy, Jesabel Anacan, Janice Oczon, and Sofia Petalcorin.

The Lady Bullpups, fielding Aubrey Lapasaran, Zaydhen Rosano, Ruiza Olmos, Queennie Cordero, and KJ Badajos, will look to spoil that bid.

In the 16-and-under division, 15-year-old reigning MVP Sky Jazul will lead Ateneo High School’s back-to-back title pursuit.

The elimination round runs from April 27 to May 2, with a break on April 29. The knockout stage will be held on May 3.

Romeo, Tallo anchor Manila Melmac in upcoming FIBA 3x3 Manila Challenger

From left to right: Mac Tallo, coach Chico Lanete, SBP executive director Erika Dy, Terrence Romeo, and Henry Iloka

Terrence Romeo and Mac Tallo, two of the country's most prolific scorers, playing in one team?

It's happening—and for good reason.

Propped up by their desire to carry the country’s tri-colors, Romeo and Tallo banner the Manila Melmac 3x3 squad seeing action in the FIBA 3x3 Manila Challenger set for Sept. 20 to 21 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.

Despite the enormous pressure and challenge to deliver in front of an expected big Filipino hometown crowd, Romeo and his teammates are unfazed.

“Kapag may expectation sa amin, that's a good sign. Ibig sabihin, ang fans sa mga player na iyon, alam nila ang capabilities na kaya nilang gawin. Ako, si Mac, si Henry, si Abdul, we know what we can do,” the flashy 5-foot-11 guard said. “Alam namin na kaya namin na mag-compete and at the same time, excited kasi ako, personally, ang tagal ko na hindi nakapaglaro ng 3x3 so excited ako na makatulong sa team natin ngayon and ang main goal is to compete.

“So, expectations are always there, pero ang main goal namin is mag-compete and manalo. So, kahit saan namin tingnan, lahat ito, going to the game is okay, masarap pakinggan pero iyong main focus namin is iyong game itself, kung ano iyong gagawin namin,” he added.

Romeo, who is making his return to the halfcourt game after a 10-year hiatus, and Tallo, the former No. 1 3x3 player in the Philippines, will be joined in the Chico Lanete-mentored quartet by Abdul Sawat and hulking 6-foot-10 big man Henry Iloka.

The former Far Eastern University standout and UAAP MVP steered Manila West to a title triumph in the 2014 FIBA 3x3 World Tour Manila Masters.

Manila Melmac opens its campaign against China’s Chongming, a team spearheaded by Latvia's top 3x3 player Karlis Lasmanis, at 2:40 o’clock on Saturday before it battles Switzerland’s Lugano later in the night at 6:20 p.m.

The equally spitfire Tallo welcomed the addition of Romeo to the team with open arms.

“Sobrang saya kasi kumbaga parang isang threat, isang Mac Tallo iyong dumating. Sobrang daming weapons na ng team namin. May pagkakatiwalaan ka. Mas na-pressure ako kasi gusto ko lumevel up sa laro ni Terrence or more than that. So, iyon ang challenge sa akin ngayon,” Tallo said in jest that likewise drew a hearty laugh from Romeo, typifying the camaraderie they have.

“Sa tulong naman ni Terrence, tinutulungan niya ako mentally, physically, how to be prepared sa mga ganitong bagay. Natututo ako sa kanya para manalo.”

This early, Romeo expressed gratitude to the full support of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas led by its executive director Erika Dy.

“Sobrang thankful ako kasi grabe iyong support nila, especially si ma’am ED. Ang laking boost sa kumpiyansa namin na alam namin na nandiyan sila sa likod namin no matter what,” he said.

“Pupunta kami sa game, malakas, mataas din ang kumpiyansa namin kasi maglalaro kami na ibibigay namin ang best namin and knowing na nandiyan iyong mga importanteng tao sa likod namin.”

Manila set for 3x3 return with FIBA Challenger

3x3 Manila Challenger

A spot in the FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2025 Season Macau Masters will be up for grabs as the Philippines plays hosts to the Manila Challenger on September 20 and 21 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

Some of the world’s top 3x3 players will see action in Manila representing 16 teams including World Number 1 and 2 Strahinja Stojacic and Marko Brankovic, who will team up representing Ub of Serbia. They will be joined by Nenad Nerandzic and Nemanja Barac, no pushovers themselves as they are ranked 5th and 8th in the world.

“The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is elated to be given the opportunity to host this event,” said President Al Panlilio. 

“The SBP has hosted many 3x3 events in the past including the 2018 FIBA 3x3 World Cup and our fans are very familiar with the game so it should make for a great atmosphere. It’s an Olympic sport so we need to keep investing in 3x3 with the hopes of making it to that stage in the near future. Hosting the Manila Challenger helps in two ways because it allows our players and the federation to get much needed points for the rankings while also allowing our athletes to test themselves against the world’s best.”

The SBP has exerted efforts to bring this event closer to the Filipino people, giving them the opportunity to witness firsthand the best players in the world while also cheering for the Filipino teams proudly representing the country.

Two of the biggest names in the sport will also be seeing action in Karlis Lasmanis and Nauris Miezis, the 2020 Olympic gold medalists from Latvia. The two have done everything there is to accomplish in 3x3 and are now playing for China’s Chongming. The two 3x3 superstars will team up with China’s top two bets in Xiang Zhi Chao and Zhang Dian Lang.

The rest of the international field includes Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia), Hangzhou (China), Skyliners (Germany), Utrecht (Netherlands), Lugano (Switzerland), Taipei, Seef (Bahrain), Shanghai (China), SG Marina Bay (Singapore), Singapore, and East Jakarta (Indonesia).

“The SBP will be welcoming outstanding 3x3 players so that competition will be top level,” said Executive Director Erika Dy. “For the SBP, it’s an opportunity to show we’re more than capable in hosting a Challenger with the hopes of hosting a Masters level competition in the future. We’re excited to showcase our Filipino talents as well and see how well they can compete at this level.”

Three teams will represent the Philippines in Mandaluyong, Cavite, and Manila. Mandaluyong will be led by high-scoring guards Jeff Manday and Joseph Sedurifa while Mac Tallo is expected to make his long awaited return to FIBA 3x3 action for Manila.

This is supported by SBP's partners Smart, Arena Plus, B'lue Water, and the Philippine Sports Commission.

Terrence Romeo joins Manila Melmac in 3x3 return

Terrence Romeo gets away from Victor Nguidjol.

Terrence Romeo is returning to 3x3 basketball, joining Manila Melmac in the FIBA 3x3 Manila Challenger on September 20-21 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.

The 5-foot-11 guard last saw action in the halfcourt game 10 years ago when he suited up for Manila West in the World Tour, also on home soil.

His comeback was made possible through the support of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, led by executive director Erika Dy, and Melmac Sports founder Mel Macasaquit.

“Unang-una, tumawag sa akin si Kuya Mel na kung puwede akong maglaro sa 3x3. Actually, two days, sa September 20 and 21, so sabi ko kay kuya Mel, kung para sa bayan maglalaro ako and hindi ko kailangan ng any offer or what basta para sa bayan, I'm available kapag kailangan ako,” Romeo said during the team’s practice in Mandaluyong on Wednesday.

“Sabi ko sa kanya, babalik din ako, kasi dahil sa pagkakaibigan namin. Actually, matagal kaming hindi nagkita ni kuya Mel pero iyong pagkakaibigan namin, laging nandoon. So, tumatanaw lang din ako ng utang na loob kay kuya Mel and isa rin siya sa kumbaga unang-unang nag-reach out sa akin kung puwede ba akong mag-comeback sa 3x3. Ten years ago na iyong last na laro ko sa 3x3 and excited ako ulit na maglaro para sa country natin."

Romeo will join forces with Mac Tallo, Abdul Sawat, and Henry Iloka, with Chico Lanete serving as head coach.

“Asahan ng fans na ibibigay ko iyong best ko,” Romeo said.

“Gagawin ko iyong best ko para makatulong sa team and hopefully, makuha namin iyong goal namin.” 

Pilipinas United 3x3 League set to launch this weekend

IT’S going to be an open race to the top come the inaugural Pilipinas United 3x3 League (PUL) this weekend at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

Twelve teams will duke it out in the men’s division, while eight squads will play in the women’s division as they take the halfcourt by storm.

“Passion fuels every drive, every shot, every hustle, while purpose brings us together to create new avenues for athletes to unite communities and to push Philippine basketball to even greater heights,” said PUL commissioner Eric Altamirano on Monday.

Celebrity David Licauco’s Taho Story A, powerhouse Half Court Group (Hoopjeep), Sidney Onwubere’s YouGuard, and dunker David Carlos’ Activate Sports spearhead the local teams in the men’s side alongside AMG Physical Therapy Clinic, Smile 360 Dental Clinic, Solaris, and Taho Story B.

They will take on a tough international field which includes Ninja Airs and SBB from Japan, Dame Dolla of Vietnam, and Kuala Lumpur of Malaysia.

At stake is the USD 5,000 cash prize with the champion also earning a ticket to the Fiba 3x3 Kaohsiung Challenger in October, while the top local team will get a spot in the Fiba 3x3 Manila Challenger spot in September.

Two-time UAAP MVP Kacey dela Rosa will carry the torch for Gilas Pilipinas Women U23 as they will be joined by top local clubs Uratex Dream and Pilipinas Aguilas in the women’s division of this tilt which has Home Court, Seda Manila Bay, Smart Sports, Solar Sports, Molten, Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things, Nueva Ecija D’Generals, Accelerated Wellness, Vision Media, and Skyworth as sponsors, and is endorsed by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Rounding out the field for the women’s division are Japan’s Maurice Lacroix, Malaysia’s Harimau Black and Yellow, Vietnam’s Hanoi 3x3 By Amigos, and Singapore's Jumpshot as they fight for the USD 3,000 cash prize.

Fans can watch the games on PusoP.com and Solar Sports on digital free TV channel 21 in Mega Manila, Cablelink Channel 58 and Sky Cable Channel 70 in NCR and in over 200 PayTV Operators nationwide.

SBP partners with SGA to Support its 3x3 Women teams

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas x Strong Group Athletics

Seeking to continue its progress in women's 3x3 basketball, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas have entered into a partnership with sports patron Strong Group Athletics.

Sealed last week, the SBP-SGA partnership sees the latter help with regards to preparations towards the Gilas Women's 3x3 competitions later this year, both in the senior and U23 levels.

Executive Director Erika Dy says of the partnership, "We’re happy for the support of Strong Group Athletics. They’ve been an ally in promoting and supporting women’s sports and we’re looking forward to providing our Filipina ballers the training and competition they need to reach their full potential."

From SGA's perspective, President Jacob Lao shares, "At Strong Group Athletics, we believe in the power of collaboration to elevate Philippine basketball. Partnering with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is a step towards fostering growth at every level—developing young talent, supporting our national teams, and strengthening the foundation of the sport we love."

The former Ateneo student-athlete adds, "Strong Group is fully committed to this cause, supporting the SBP in its mission, including helping women's basketball reach greater heights with the ultimate goal of making it to the Olympics."

With an eye towards the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup and the Southeast Asian Games, Gilas Women are coming off two podium finishes in recent competitions.

The quartet of Mikka Cacho, Camille Clarin, Jhazmin Joson, and Hazelle Yam, they made it to the semifinals of the third edition of Manila Hustle 3x3. Kaye Pingol, who was playing for her club side Uratex Dream in this competition, replaced Yam for the Season 2 edition of Jumpshot 3x3 in Singapore.

Cacho, Clarin, Joson, and Pingol are slated to be the Gilas Women quartet slated to participate in the Got Game 3x3 competitions scheduled this weekend at the UP Community Court.

As for the U23 team, who also competed in Manila Hustle and earned an eleventh place finish, they are slated to participation in the 2025 edition of the FIBA 3x3 Youth Nations League in a couple of months.

Titans, ZOOS Tokyo claim remaining Manila Hustle automatic quarterfinal seats

c/o Manila Hustle

TITANS marched on to the quarterfinals of Manila Hustle 3x3 Season 3 after going unblemished in pool play Saturday at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Last year’s runner-up was all business in Pool C as the quartet of Supavadee Kunchuan, Lina Nakazawa, Trina Guytingco, and Stefanie Berberabe dominated their group, earning wins over Royals Basketball (15-7), Uratex Tibay (21-15), and Tokyo BB (21-16).

With the victory, Titans now lie in wait for the winner of the qualification to the quarterfinal between Dinoman Hansol and Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Women in this tilt co-presented by Uratex, Smart, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

Gilas settled for the third seed in Pool D due to inferior points scored even if they took down defending champion Zoos Tokyo, 21-19, in overtime and fended off Harimau Malaysia, 16-10, in the nightcap.

Jhaz Joson delivered the booming deuce in front of a capacity crowd to inflict the first defeat to the Japanese club.

Still, Zoos Tokyo ended up on top of the group after a three-way tie for first with Panthers 3x3 and Gilas Women with their identical 2-1 records, as the squad led by world no. 55 Ama Degbeon earned the final outright quarterfinal seat and will meet the victor of the clash between Uratex Tibay and Jumpshot.

Meanwhile, Pool B top seed Uratex Dream will face the winner of the Panthers 3x3 and Gilas Women 3x3 U23, while XD await the survivor of the Tokyo BB-Shoot It Dragons clash in this tourney which has Titan as official partner, together with Wilson, Seiko, B’lue, Secret Fresh, BDO, Jollibee, TRYP by Wyndham, Jisulife, Rexona, Senka, and Laurin.

At stake is the USD4,000 cash prize and an invite to the WKBL Triple Jam later this year. The runner-up will take home USD2,500 and the third placer USD1,500.

Games will still be livestreamed on the Manila Hustle 3x3 Facebook page, as well as on the Smart Sports and Puso Pilipinas pages.

Uratex Dream, XD secure automatic Manila Hustle quarterfinal spots

c/o Manila Hustle

URATEX Dream and XD were the first two teams to book quarterfinal spots in Manila Hustle 3x3 Season 3 after topping their respective pools during the early portion of preliminary action Saturday at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Kaye Pingol, the country’s top-ranked women’s 3x3 player, guided the Dream to a perfect 3-0 run in Pool B to earn the outright ticket to the final eight.

She was unstoppable in their 18-10 rout of New Zealand Creamery before hurdling Shoot It Dragons, 21-17, and a dominant 21-12 win over Jumpshot Singapore in this tourney co-presented by Uratex, Smart, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

“Yung Dream talaga ngayon is sobrang mature. Marunong na kami mag-close out ng games and alam na namin kung paano mag-adjust para makuha pa rin yung panalo,” said Pingol, who linked up with Afril Bernardino, Sam Harada, and Chinese center Li Renzhu in the undefeated stretch.

XD of Japan also did the same feat after going spotless in Pool A, including a thrilling 21-19 overtime win over Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 U23.

Momoko Saito scored the last four points for the Japanese crew, including the OT-forcing drive in the final 10 seconds to stun their younger foes.

XD earlier flaunted its muscle with a 21-7 mugging of Army Altama before an 18-11 nipping of Dinoman Hansol of Korea.

Making it through to the qualification to the quarterfinals are Dinoman Hansol (2-1) and Gilas Womens 3x3 U23 (1-2) from Pool A, as well as Jumpshot (2-1) and Shoot It Dragons (1-2) from Pool B.

Army Altama and New Zealand Creamery, both winless in their respective pools, have been eliminated from the Philippine women’s 3x3 international invitational which also has Titan as official partner, together with Wilson, Seiko, B’lue, Secret Fresh, BDO, Jollibee, TRYP by Wyndham, Jisulife, Rexona, Senka, and Laurin.

The afternoon session, which features teams from Pool C and Pool D, are still playing their group stage games as of press time.

ZOOS set for Manila Hustle title defense

Ama Degbeon

AOI Katsura is still confident in Zoos Tokyo’s chances to defend their Manila Hustle 3x3 throne even if she’s not with the team.

The Season 2 Most Outstanding Player-turned-team owner understands the enormous pressure that falls on the shoulders of her team, but is nonetheless excited to see the Japanese club rise to the occasion.

“It’s going to be a challenging task but at the same time, I have full confidence in their great potential—both as individual players and as a team—so anything is possible. I believe they are the ones who will make it happen,” she said ahead of their title retention bid in this tourney co-presented by Uratex, Smart, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

World no. 55 Ama Degbeon is the lone holdover from last year’s unit as she will be joined by Japanese under-23 standouts Fatoumanana Nishi, Maya Tahira, and Miran Kikuchi.

This, Katsura said, is by design, saying that the project was “to provide various opportunities for future players.”

But that doesn’t mean that Zoos Tokyo is going to be a pushover this year.

Degbeon, for her part, is hungry to show that she can still lead the team to the top in this tilt which also has Titan as official partner, together with Wilson, Seiko, B’lue, Secret Fresh, BDO, Jollibee, TRYP by Wyndham, Jisulife, Rexona, Senka, and Laurin.

“Of course, it’s a big motivation to repeat as champions, but more than anything, we want to focus on giving our all in every game and the goal is always to win,” said the German forward.

Zoos, however, has its work cut out for it as it finds itself in a tough Pool D together with Gilas Women 3x3, Panthers 3x3 of Spain, and Harimau Malaysia.

The winner of the Philippine 3x3 women's international invitational will take home the USD4,000 cash prize and an invite to the WKBL Triple Jam later this year.

Philippines vs Rest of the World in third edition of Manila Hustle 3x3

Smart Sports First Vice President and Head of Sports Jude Turcuato, Manila Hustle 3x3 tournament director Peachy Cheng-Medina, and SBP executive director Erika Dy. Photo from Manila Hustle 3x3

CAN the Filipino teams reclaim the crown and defend the home court?

That’s going to be the biggest challenge for the seven local teams in the Manila Hustle 3x3 Season 3 this weekend at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Leading the charge will be the two national teams, Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Women and Gilas Pilipinas U23 3x3 Women, as they try to rule the 16-team field in this tilt co-presented by Uratex, Smart, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

Jhazmin Joson, Camille Clarin, Mikka Cacho, and Hazelle Yam will be the quartet for the seniors team while Season 1 MVP Kacey dela Rosa will backstop the under-23 crew together with Tine Cayabyab, Cielo Pagdulagan, and Elaine Etang.

Titans, last year’s runner-up, is also back in the fold with Stefanie Berberabe joining the trio of Trina Guytingco, Thai star Bo Supavadee, and Japanese beanpole Lina Nakazawa.

Also feeling the pressure is the country’s top-ranked 3x3 player Kaye Pingol who will lead Uratex Dream together with Afril Bernardino, Sam Harada, and Chinese center Li Renzhu.

But for the former National U standout, having this chip on their shoulder is natural.

“Alam namin kung gaano kabigat yung kalaban this season kaya determined kami, hindi lang yung Dream kung hindi lahat ng Filipino teams, na makapagpakita at manalo,” she said.

Aside from the four, also ready to defend our shores are Army Altama, New Zealand Creamery, and Uratex Tibay.

But it won’t be easy, especially with a bumper crop field out to conquer the half court led by Paris Olympian and world no. 22 Kacie Bosch of Panthers 3x3 from Spain and world no. 55 Ama Degbeon of defending champion Zoos Tokyo.

Panthers emerge as the dark horse in the tourney, not just with Bosch but also Fiba 3x3 Women’s Series veterans Ari Geli, Saicha Grant-Allen, and Christina Buttenham.

Zoos, however, believes that the biggest target is still on its back, with Degbeon still on the lead sans last year’s Most Outstanding Player Aoi Katsura.

Rounding out this season’s casts are Tokyo BB and XD from Japan, Dinoman Hansol of Korea, Royals Basketball of Australia, Jumpshot of Singapore, Shoot It Dragons of Thailand, and Harimau Malaysia.

Competition starts at 10 a.m. with teams playing in a single round robin in four groups of four. The top-seeds will earn an automatic quarterfinal berth while the second and third-place teams fighting in the wildcard of this tourney which also has Titan as official partner, together with Wilson, Seiko, B’lue, Secret Fresh, BDO, Jollibee, TRYP by Wyndham, Jisulife, Rexona, Senka, and Laurin.

At stake in the Philippine 3x3 women’s international invitational is the USD4,000 cash prize and an invitation to the WKBL Triple Jam later this year, with the runner-up bagging USD2,500 and the third placer USD1,500.

Games will be livestreamed on the Manila Hustle 3x3 Facebook page, as well as on the Smart Sports and Puso Pilipinas pages.