LIMITLESS App sets a redemption mission in the coming Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) in Vietnam after its disappointing campaign on Wednesday’s Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) 3×3 Second Conference Grand Finals.
“It wasn’t our day but we’re looking forward to the SEA Games,” big man Brandon Rosser said after the top-seeded Appmasters’ unceremonious early exit in their last competition before wearing the Gilas Pilipinas 3×3 jersey.
The First Conference titlist and four-time leg winners were among the hot favorites but unceremoniously got the boot in the quarterfinal round at the hands of eventual winner Pioneer Pro Tibay, 16-14.
“It’s much more of a challenge for us because we have a sour taste in the mouth and we have to get back the glory we had back before,” the Fil-Am stalwart said.
“You don’t want to lose, but an eye-opener is okay,” he added.
Mr. Rosser and his teammates Marvin Hayes, Reymar Caduyac and Jorey Napoles embrace the big responsibility of defending the 3×3 gold the crew of Chris Newsome, Jason Perkins, Mo Tautuaa and CJ Perez previously won in the event’s inaugural edition in Manila in 2019.
“The Philippines is the defending champion — that’s the torch we have to carry there. We’re excited for the opportunity,” said the 6-foot-7 Mr. Rosser, who is making his debut for the national team.
While waging battle in the PBA 3×3, the Willie Wilson-coached Appmasters have been watching videos of Gilas’ rivals for the SEAG mint.
“There’s a lot of size, experience over there, but I think we stack up pretty good against any team in the region,” said Mr. Rosser.
After the Gilas Pilipinas 3×3 venture, Mr. Rosser is making his leap to the 5-on-5. He has already submitted his application for the Season 47 PBA Rookie Draft, where he looms as one of the top prospects.
“It’s something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time now so I’m excited wherever I play and just looking to get better, prove myself and win as much as I can,” he said. — Olmin Leyba