Manila North vs Manila west. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Manila North exploited its size advantage and even got its outside shots clicking to beat reigning titlist Manila West, 21-18, and make the final of the Fiba 3×3 World Tour Manila Masters Sunday at Robinson’s Place Manila.
Calvin Abueva, Vic Manuel and Troy Rosario proved too tough to handle in the shaded area for Manila West’s Terrence Romeo, KG Canaleta, Aldrech Ramos and Rey Guevarra.
“It wasn’t easy for us but we stuck to our plan which is to pound the ball inside,” said Abueva in Filipino. “We were also able to limit their shooters.”
The game was tied at 11 before Manila North went on a 7-0 run to create separation. A baseline dunk by Abueva made it, 19-14, while Manuel scored on a reverse to propel his team to the final against defending world champion NoviSad.
NoviSad ran away in the semifinal against Doha, 21-13.
READ: Fiba 3×3: Novi Sad enters Manila Masters Finals
“They’re the defending champion and we’re just getting started,” Abueva said.
Apart from inside baskets, Manila North also knocked down 2-pointers to the surprise of Manila West.
“They were able to make outside shots. Our goal was to let them shoot from the outside but their outside shooting clicked,” Romeo said.
Romeo obviously wanted to make the final but he’s happy nonetheless with another Philippine team making it through and earning a slot in the World Tour Final in UAE on Oct. 15-16.
“We would’ve wanted to make the finals but we don’t have any problems with it because it’s Manila North who beat us,” Romeo said. CFC