Gilas Men 3×3 beat Jordan in Asian Games opener

Gilas Pilipinas Men’s 3×3 team at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.–Photo from ONE Sports IG

MANILA, Philippines—Gilas Pilipinas Men 3×3 began their Asian Games bid on the right foot on Monday in Hangzhou, China.

The quartet of Bryan Sajonia, Bismarck Lina, Justine Sanchez and JR Pasaol beat Jordan, 13-8, in Pool A.

Bryan Sajonia led Gilas with eight points while Lina added four. Pasaol, brother of Meralco Bolts player Alvin, chipped in a couple while Sanchez had a point.

Gilas forced Jordan to commit 11 turnovers while the Filipinos only fumbled the ball thrice.

The Philippines takes on Chinese Taipei next on Tuesday.

Gilas was left with one 3×3 squad before competitions got underway after the country’s women’s team pulled out of the Asiad on Monday.

Gilas Women’s 3×3 team withdrew from the tournament after Asian Games organizers denied their request to include replacement players Cielo Pagdulagan and Marga Villanueva.

Pagdulangan and Villanueva were supposed to fill in for seasoned 3×3 players Camille Clarin and Angel Surada. The denial forced Pat Aquino’s team to beg off with only two available players.