Following an impressive performance in the UAAP Season 84 men’s basketball tournament, Ilonggo hotshot Gerry Abadiano will lead the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons in the 3×3 Basketball Tournament slated on June 2 to 3 in Calatagan South Beach, Batangas.
Abadiano, who did huge contributions for the National University (NU) Bullpups’ back-to-back championships in UAAP juniors basketball, played for St. Robert’s International Academy (SRIA) Panda Rockets.
Negros Occidental pride Harold Alarcon will also reinforce the team, alongside Brix Ramos, AJ Madrigal, Harold Alarcon, Bismarck Lina and RC Calimag.
Abadiano also led the country in the FIBA 3×3 U18 Asia Cup in 2019. They will go up against National University to open a heavy 14-game schedule.
Ateneo, second placers in last month’s men’s basketball competition, will face fabled rival De La Salle to set in motion its 3×3 campaign. Chris Koon, Geo Chiu, Inand Fornillos, and JC Fetalvero will comprise the Blue Eagles while Donn Lim, Ralph Cu, Emman Galman, and Ben Phillips will banner the Green Archers.
Meanwhile, in the women’s division, the decorated Lady Bulldogs will be led by Camille Clarin, known for drilling in the buzzer-beater in the Philippines’ stunning 10-9 win over No. 6 The Netherlands in the 2019 FIBA 3×3 U18 World Cup.
Pototan, Iloilo native Karl Ann Pingol will join the NU alongside Angel Surada and Kristine Cayabyab in the line-up. They will begin its title bid against University of Santo Tomas’ Tacky Tacatac, Reynalyn Ferrer, Agatha Bron and Joylyn Pangilinan.
Far Eastern University, starring Mikee Antonio, Mary Julianne Manguiat, Danica Pacia and Camille Taguiam, plays Ateneo, featuring Jhazmin Joson, Lettice Miranda, Dyna Nieves and Sandra Villacruz to usher a 14-game bill in the distaff side.
The top four teams after the single-round eliminations of both divisions will clash in the knockout semifinals Friday. The one-game championship will be played on the same day.IMT Sports