ZAMBOANGA Valientes, a Mindanao-based team that has stamped its mark in Australia with championships in the Champions League 3x3, banners a roster of six non-PBA regulars in a 16-team cast slugging it out in the inaugural PBA 3x3.
Master Sardines, Big Boss Cement, Geanaux, Pioneer Adhesive and Phenom BRT Sumisip are the other teams joining the country's premier cage league via its pilot three-a-side event.
These six teams are tipped to give the PBA regulars tough competition and help the league achieve its goal of boosting the sport in the country.
"They're all excited and eagerly look forward to the PBA 3x3 kickoff. I expect them to provide thrill and excitement along with the other teams," said PBA commissioner Willie Marcial.
The six non-PBA regulars join San Miguel Beer, Barangay Ginebra, Magnolia, TNT Tropang Giga, Meralco, NLEX, NorthPort, Phoenix Pulse, TerraFirma and Rain or Shine in chase of glory as the PBA 3x3 comes off the wraps in August.
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Alaska Milk has begged off from play since Alaska official Dicky Bachmann is the PBA 3x3 chairman. Blackwater, meanwhile, has ceded its spot to BRT Sumisip.
The PBA targets four legs in Season 46, with the opening leg commencing a month after the PBA 5x5 kickoff late June or early July.
With this, league officials hope to boost the sport and help the country achieve its goal of making the Olympics.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas 3x3 program director and national coach Ronnie Magsanoc said the PBA's new offering should be a big boost for Gilas moving forward. (SB)
