Wilcon Depot team aims high in first PBA 3×3 stint
Wilcon Depot 3×3 team for the PBA. –LANCE AGCAOILI
MANILA, Philippines — Wilcon Depot will be the newest PBA 3×3 team as it joins the first leg of the league’s third season on July 3 and 4 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
The team on Thursday announced that it will be joining the PBA 3×3, parading Filipino-American Keith Datu, three-time PBA champion Louie Vigil, team captain Yutien Andrada, the former top pick of the 2016 PBA Draft Ael Banal, and TH Tumalip.
“We’re grateful for this opportunity and we have our full trust that the players we have can represent Wilcon Depot well in the 3×3 stage,” said coach Anton Altamirano.
Datu, who is seeking to enter the 2023 PBA Draft in September, is playing his second season in the 3×3. Vigil last played for NorthPort in the PBA, while Andrada, Banal, and Tumalip were all members of the two-time PBA 3×3 champion Platinum Karaoke team.
“Right now, I’m focused on being my absolute best for this team and what we set to accomplish this conference. The goal is definitely the championship,” said Datu.
Joining Altamirano in his staff are assistant coach Matthew Sia and strength and conditioning coach Marco Yulo.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial also attended the press launch to welcome Wilcon Depot, which will be a guest team in the first conference.
The country’s home improvement and construction supplies retailer is joining the sports scene for the first time.
“We are taking our commitment to another level as we venture into the basketball world. Wilcon Depot’s participation in the third season of PBA 3×3 represents our passion for every Filipino homeowner and our dedication to fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. This exciting endeavor allows us to further connect with our customers and sports enthusiasts alike,” said Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Wilcon Depot Inc.
“We’re proud of this endeavor and we have high hopes that our brand can fare well and compete at a high level in PBA 3×3,” she added.
The first leg of PBA 3×3 will feature 11 teams including reigning grand champion TNT, Barangay Ginebra, Blackwater, Northport, San Miguel, Cavitex, Terrafirma, Pioneer Elasto Seal, Tender Juicy Titans, and Meralco.
