Philippine belles bow to Dutch, Germans in 3x3 opener

BOCAUE, Philippines — The Philippine belles put up a courageous stand against formidable European opponents before dropping their first two matches in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup at the Philippine Arena here last night.

Before a cheering hometown crowd, Afril Bernardino, Janine Pontejos, Jack Danielle Animan and Gemma Miranda fought Team Germany in a close game that they barely lost, 10-12, on four missed two-pointers in the final minute.

The Filipinas also made a solid stand against the tall, sweet-shooting The Netherlands team before eventually reeling to an 11-21 loss in their very first outing in 3x3 international play.

Team Phl coach Patrick Aquino said they lost the two matches against opponents showing tremendous poise because of their rich experience as World Tour regulars.

“Experience-wise, we lack the poise. When the opponents’ shots were going in, sometimes you lose focus, you lose momentum and everything,” said Aquino. “I hope we learn from these two games and get back better in the next games.”

From their 10-point loss to The Netherlands’ Orange Angels, the Filipinas returned to play a lot better against the Germans.

The Philippine men’s team of Christian Standhardinger, Stanley Pringle, Troy Rosario and RR Pogoy plunge into action today in Pool C against No. 6 Brazil at 3:10 p.m. then against 11th seed Mongolia at 6:40 p.m.

Initial men’s actions saw Estonia and Poland sweep their first two games in Pool B.