SBP expects better days for Gilas 3x3

MANILA, Philippines — With better preparation and wider international exposure, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) 3x3 program director and head coach Ronnie Magsanoc believes Gilas Pilipinas will eventually make a bigger impact in the three-a-side game.

Gilas 3x3 got a harsh reality check in the FIBA 3x3 Olympic Qualification Tournament in Graz, Austria, where it failed to win a single game in Pool C.

The all-PBA crew lost to Qatar, Slovenia and the Dominican Republic before making a brave stand in a tight 14-15 setback to world No. 10 France in the last outing.

“We will return to Manila with the thought that in time we will be able to match up and compete with the best (3x3) countries in the world,” Magsanoc told The STAR.

The Gilas 3x3 coach and head of delegation can’t emphasize enough the importance of buildup. The group of Joshua Munzon, CJ Perez, Leonard Santillan, Mo Tautuaa and Alvin Pasaol only had about three weeks to gear up for the OQT back home while tackling quarantine restrictions.

“Time and preparation are key elements,” said Magsanoc, whose team’s woes in Austria were confounded by the severe stiff neck that sidelined big man Tautuaa in the last two games.

“Consistent international exposure will definitely add toughness and readiness for our Gilas 3x3 national players once we participate in the top-level FIBA 3x3 competitions in the coming year,” he added.