AUSTRALIA and China rose as king and queen of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) 3×3 Asia Cup, respectively, after thrilling wins against separate challengers at the close of the continental tilt in Singapore.
Led by MVP Jesse Wagstaff, Australia completed a three-peat in men’s play after a 21-17 win over rival New Zealand while China overcame Australia in the women’s division finale, 14-10.
It’s the first FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup title for China behind the efforts of MVP Lili Wang.
China also secured a bronze medal in the men’s tilt with a 20-18 win over Gilas Pilipinas while Indonesia completed the women’s podium with a 21-17 win over Japan.
Gilas men, as heavy underdog that showcased a Cinderella run from the qualifiers, still overachieved at fourth place for its best finish in international 3×3 play.
“This is the Philippines’ best ever finish in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup and a clear sign that the partnership with the PBA is working out well,” said the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) 3×3 stalwarts Almond Vosotros, Samboy de Leon and Lervin Flores from TnT as well as Joseph Eriobu from Purefoods led the country’s stellar Final Four finish in the prestigious Asian tilt that featured 30 teams.
SBP also credited the efforts of coaches Mau Belen (TnT) Tony Boy Espinosa (Purefoods) and Lester del Rosario (Pioneer Pro Tibay) with officials SBP 3×3 director Ronnie Magsanoc, PBA 3×3 director Joey Guanio, PBA commissioner Willie Marcial, PBA chairman Ricky Vargas and PBA 3×3 commissioner Dickie Bachmann.
Meanwhile, Gilas women’s team finished at 14th place after falling short in the qualifying phase. — John Bryan Ulanday