No expectations for Asian 3×3 kings

3×3 Champions. From FIBA Asia website

After giving the country its first cage title at the continental level in a long time, the Energen-Philippine youth team faces a tougher challenge in the Fiba 3×3 U18 World Championship this September.

But much like their successful campaign in the Fiba Asia Championship last week, the quartet of Arvin Tolentino, Prince Rivero, Kobe Paras, and Thirdy Ravena will be playing without the huge burden of expectation in the Sept. 26 to 29 tournament in Jakarta, where the country will vie against 23 other teams for the crown.

“We will try to enjoy the tournament just like the Fiba Asia where we didn’t really set expectations,” said coach John Flores who graced the PSA Forum along with the newly-minted champions.

“I think this is a good opportunity not only for the boys but for the entire country. It’s not so often that we get into a world championship,” said Flores in the session presented by Shakey’s and the Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation.

In Bangkok, Flores’ charges surprised the field with their own brand of basketball, beating a taller China on their way to the finals against India, which they defeated, 21-19.

By topping the event, the young Filipinos earned a berth to the world championship.

A total of 48 teams—24 each in both men and women’s side—from Europe, South America, North America, and other Fiba zones will be competing in the World 3×3.

The team is proud of what it has achieved even if the 3×3 game is a relatively new event in the Fiba calendar.

“It’s only 3×3, but a gold is still a gold,” said Flores.