By NIKOLE JAVIER
Six Philippine 3x3 teams are set to showcase their talent against international rivals in the inaugural Manila Hustle 3x3 on Feb. 4 to 5 at Robinsons Magnolia.
The two-day tournament will feature six local squads pitted against six international teams from Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand for the $3,000 cash prize.
Three-time WNBL champion Uratex Dream will be spearheaded by the country’s top 3x3 player in Kaye Pingol while Tina Deacon, Sam Harada and Shanda Anies complete the dream lineup.
Other Gilas women mainstays Khate Castillo, Janine Pontejos, Trina Guytingco and Chack Cabinbin will also be suiting up in the tournament.
Meanwhile, UAAP Season 85 Rookie of the Year and Mythical Five member Kacey Dela Rosa of Ateneo will also see action for the Lady Macbeth Riots which will be coached by Gilas women’s tactician Pat Aquino.
Dela Rosa’s Lady Macbeth boasts a steady lineup with Gilas women players Pontejos, Castillo and Guytingco.
Other Filipina talents will be beefing up teams in Army Altama, Angels Resort, Discovery Perlas and Uratex Tibay.
“What drove Uratex to sponsor the event, first of all, I am part of the women’s basketball community. I see a lot of talent and a lot of opportunity to play at a very high level especially after college when they graduate. So, I really jumped at the opportunity to provide a platform and showcase the talents of our women ballers. For me, it is the right time to invest in women’s basketball,” said Uratex managing director Peachy Medina during the pre-event press conference at Summit Hotels in Greenhills on Thursday, Jan. 26.
Manila Hustle will kick off on Feb. 4 at 11 a.m. at the Robinsons Magnolia Atrium. The games will also air live on Smart Sports and Puso Pilipinas’ Facebook page.