PBA backs 3x3 Tokyo bid

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is backing the formation of a solid squad that will vie for a slot in the Tokyo Olympics by way of a qualifying event this May in Granz, Austria, according to the PBA’s 3x3 committee.

“The goal is to create more awareness, create more interest and hopefully set a stepping stone towards reaching the Olympics,” Altamirano told Daily Tribune following the board meeting last Friday.

A few days ago, the Philippines was tapped to replace New Zealand in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) in Belgrade, Serbia set for 29 June to 4 July after the Kiwis decided to skip the event owing to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president and Meralco governor Al Panlilio, they will fully coordinate with the PBA in order for the federation to send the best 5-on-5 team possible to the Olympics.

“Whenever we compete in international tournaments, we always aim to send the best team possible to make our Filipino fans proud,” said Panlilio, also the Philippine Olympic Committee first vice president.

“We will be coordinating with the PBA to plot our plans moving forward.”

While the 5-on-5 Gilas Pilipinas squad will be facing a tough task ahead of the Olympics, Altamirano asserted that the 3x3 national team has a high chance of making it.

Gilas 3x3 had already punched a ticket to the FIBA 3x3 OQT last October 2019 when Altamirano was still serving as the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3 commissioner.

Although FIBA has reaffirmed Chooks-to-Go as its Philippine partner, Altamirano said the PBA will still help in any way it can for the growth of the sport.

“We’re always here whenever SBP asks for our help,” said Altamirano, who previously served as SBP’s project director of the 3×3 competition.

“The goal here is to really push the sport forward, not only locally but also internationally.”