Athletic prowess and technological innovation were on full display as 768 young athletes competed for court supremacy at the Taiwan Excellence 3×3 Hoop Challenge over the weekend at the SM Megamall Event Center in Mandaluyong City.
Taiwan Excellence, an award-giving body that recognizes only the best Taiwanese brands and products, mounted the tournament anew to find the newest batch of Filipino talents.
This year’s tournament also featured ‘Band of Brothers’ Kobe Paras of UP Fighting Maroons and Andre Paras of Imus Bandera as the new tournament ambassadors.
“We want this to be an avenue to inspire young Filipinos to always strive to reach their very best, in the same way Taiwan Excellence pushes its brands to always innovative and upgrade,” said Chun Tse Wu, director of the Strategic Marketing Department of Taiwan External Trade Center.
After rigorous qualifying rounds, the 192 teams competing in two age divisions —19-under and Open—were trimmed down to the top eight. The top teams then faced off against each other, with AMA University pulling off a sweep.
Annie’s Way-AMA 1, composed of Zheanriz Romero, Earl Bryan Ceniza, Joshua Villamor, and Josh Reymond Colina, won the 19-under crown, while Annie’s Way-AMA 2 made up of Joshua Sabile, Christian Germino, and Alec Catorce, claimed the Open crown.
Apart from the fiery competition, the event also showcased an array of award-winning products from Taiwanese brands.
“The products from Taiwan Excellence are made to comply with our strictest standards, making sure they elevate the quality of life of every consumer worldwide,” said Wu.
A total of 11 brands exhibited some of their best products. Spread across the Taiwan Excellence Experience Zone, Filipinos were able to get up close and personal with the brands and products.
For the tech-savvy Filipinos and e-sports aficionados, ZYXEL showcased the Multy U which provides seamless home WIFI connection. INWIN also displayed powerful gadgets that proved why they are at the top of their game.
Sports brands also did not disappoint. HAPPY ISLAND showed off its water-proof music player for swimmers. JOHNSON FITNESS offered several fitness machines that adapt to everyone’s lifestyle.
As for those always on-the-go, KYMCO and their tough motorcycles were on display as well as urban-ready foldable bicycles of TERN.
“Moving around the busy Metro is now more rewarding with the bikes from Tern,” said Kobe, who will play his rookie year as a UP Maroon in the UAAP Season 83.