Kobe Paras. Screengrab from FIBA3x3 YouTube
Youth basketball star Kobe Paras won’t participate in this year’s FIBA 3×3 World Tour Manila Masters.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Sonny Barrios said that despite the association’s relentless efforts to bring the 17-year-old to the country, his coaches feel that it’s better for him to stay in the training camps in the US.
READ: SBP exec hopes Kobe Paras competes in 3×3 Manila Masters
“Unfortunately, according to Kobe’s dad Benjie, the coaches would rather have him attend the Adidas Training Camp,” said Barrios at the weekly PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate. “We’re all looking forward to seeing him, but we tried as hard as we have done.”
Though faced with a minor setback, Barrios believes that the country has formed three formidable squads which can compete in this year’s tilt.
Reigning stage champs Manila West are out to defend their crown featuring Terrence Romeo, Aldrech Ramos, Nino Canaleta, and Rey Guevarra.
READ: Manila West starts 3×3 title defense
Calvin Abueva, meanwhile, leads Manila North together with Vic Manuel, Karl Dehesa, and Troy Rosario, while Cebuanos are represented by Manila Southby budding hotshots Jair Igna, Carlo Ortega, Lucky Ecarma, and Joshua Sinclair.
READ: Abueva eyes redemption in 3×3 Manila Masters
Barrios said that though preparations under coaches Eric Altamirano and John Flores are in full swing, he knows that it’s going to be a tall order for the Philippine teams this year to finish at the top.
“Mabigat ang labanan ngayon kasi nag-pick up yung mga kalaban natin (It’s going to be tough because our opponents have picked up their game.),” he said.
Defending world champs Novi Sad and former titlist Doha will also make the Philippine trip as they vie for the Manila leg’s two coveted spots in the World Tour Finals to be held in Abu Dhabi in October.
The 2015 FIBA 3×3 World Tour Manila Masters will be held this weekend at Robinsons Ermita. CFC