Uratex Dream: Sam Harada, Kaye Pingol, Mikka Cacho, and Tina Deacon. –HANDOUT PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Uratex Dream buried the Titans, 21-14, to notch the WMovement’s First 3×3 Elite Invitational Tournament championship at Veacon Hope Sports Center in Caloocan on Sunday.
Kaye Pingol, left ankle sprain notwithstanding, scattered 15 points in the victory to power the Dream over the Titans in a lopsided affair.
“Just fight, that was the only thing in our mind. Despite losing our last game in the group stage, we knew that we still had a chance, we just needed to bounce back,” said the former National University standout.
Pingol was also hailed as the inaugural tourney’s MVP.
Sam Harada helped the cause for coach Pat Aquino’s wards with six points, including the clutch free throw that put Uratex up for good with 2:05 ticks left to play.
Snow Penaranda led the Titans’ quartet that includes, Hazelle Yam, Mary Joy Galicia and Khate Castillo with seven points in a losing effort.
Other than snagging the invitational chip, Uratex’s win was a “character-building,” victory as the women of the hardcourt look to stamp their name in the 3×3 scene.
“The girls really showed their character so we’re really proud of them,” said team owner Peachy Medina in Filipino. “Despite having injuries, they did not give up.”
Uratex will continue training as they gear up for Serbia in September for the Red Bull Half Court World Final.