Gilas 3x3 team tries to defy odds

MANILA, Philippines — The Gilas Pilipinas men’s 3x3 team is locked-in for the tough task of defying the odds against world-class rivals in this week’s FIBA 3x3 Olympic Qualification Tournament in Graz, Austria.

The crew of Joshua Munzon, Alvin Pasaol, CJ Perez and Mo Tautuaa left for Austria last night carrying the hopes of a nation hungry to see Filipino ballers compete in the 3x3 basketball pilot in Tokyo.

“I can say the players are really all-in,” Gilas coach Ronnie Magsanoc said, lauding the regulars as well as alternates Santi Santillan and Karl Dehesa for their “commitment and sacrifice” during training the past three weeks.

Gilas 3x3 will begin its mission on May 26 with a Pool C double-header against Qatar and world No. 3 Slovenia. After two days, the Pinoy dribblers will take on the Dominican Republic and 10th-ranked France with sights set on finishing first or second in the group to advance to the knockout rounds.

The ultimate aim is to make a medal finish to earn a trip to Tokyo.