MANILA – The Philippines capped off its campaign in the 2018 FIBA 3×3 Under-23 World Cup with a pair of wins against Turkmenistan and China.
But the two victories were not enough for the Ronnie Magsanoc-mentored Filipino team to advance to the next round, with China and Slovenia topping Pool C (3-1 win-loss each).
The Philippines banked on the hot shooting of RJ Abarrientos as it dealt the cellar-dwelling Turkmenistan a 21-8 beating Friday night in Xi’an, China. Ricci Rivero also provided spark for the Philippines.
Abarrientos caught fire early on for a 17-7 advantage with over two minutes in the match. Rivero then laid out the finishing touches with 3 straight points, including two free throws.
Against China, Abarrientos and Rivero sustained their shooting form as they stunned the host team 21-15 to exit the tournament with a bang.
Abarrientos drilled four long bombs to lead the Filipinos with 10 points while Rivero poured in 7 markers. Rhayyan Amsali added 3 while Jeepy Faundo scored 1.
Rivero anchored the Philippines’ strong start against the Chinese for a 10-5 advantage following a hit by Amsali. China tried to keep the gap close but Abarrientos fended it off with clutch baskets from the outside.
“We appreciate all the trust and support, especially those who prayed for us,” Rivero said. “We did not qualify to the quarterfinals because we started bad but we ended the campaign pretty well, I guess.”/PN
