By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Despite not qualifying for the main draw of the 2021 FIBA 3×3 World Tour Doha Masters, the revamped PH national 3×3 team actually fought hard and impressed.
First-timers in the international scene and mentored by decorated coach Aldin Ayo, the quartet of Chico Lanete, Mac Tallo, Dennis Santos, and Zachy Huang scored a 1-1 record in the elimination round.
Lanete, the oldest player and with the most experience, played the hero when he hit a game-winner during the tournament after scoring the go-ahead three-pointer to upset home team Doha in overtime, 21-20.
However, in their next game, the Manila Chooks TM 3×3 squad lost to Graz in a tight contest, 22-17, despite being huge underdogs against one of the top teams in FIBA.
For coach Ayo and the rest of the staff, they like what the team offers and is only the beginning of something great.
The four-man lineup played like veterans on the court and was able to execute their plays, passing the ball effectively especially against Doha.
Lanete was consistent all throughout with his shooting, Tallo was making buckets off drives and spot-ups, Huang did his thing to energize the squad and Santos provided outside shooting to space the floor.
With Joshua Munzon, Alvin Pasaol, Troy Rike, and Santi Santillan exiting the 3×3 scene, coach Ayo and the rest of the boys will be working hard to achieve what the past top players did for the country.
