Lervin Flores, returning after a seven-month hiatus, scored 10 points in leading TNT Triple Giga to a 15-11 victory over Blancas in the Red Bull Half Court Philippines 2024 recently at the Kartilya ng Katipunan courts in Manila.
Flores’ final baskets came during a crucial 6-0 run, turning a 9-11 deficit into a win, securing a spot alongside eventual women’s champion Uratex Dream in the World Finals.
The Dream, anchored by a strong defense, defeated Discovery Perlas Pilipinas 8-6 to secure their place in the World Finals, set to take place from October 16 to 21 in New York City.
“I came from a long rest. I gave my all. I haven’t played 3×3 for seven months,” said Flores.
TNT Triple Giga, consisting of Almond Vosotros, Chester Saldua, and Matt Salem, faced Blancas with Christer Catarong, Limuel Tampus, Arnel Molina, and Marvin Samonte.
Newcomer Afril Bernardino scored twice in the final 21.8 seconds for Uratex Dream’s last points.
The Dream relied on their defense to clinch their second consecutive women’s title, with Bernardino finishing with four points.
“Sobra siyang nakakapagod. Pero worth it siya, dahil nakuha namin ang champi onship,” said the Dream’s skipper Kaye Pingol.
The team also includes Samantha Harada, Kaye Pingol, and Eunique Chan. Perlas featured Allana Lim, LJ Sto. Domingo, Joylyn Pangilinan, and Hazelle Yam.
The tournament saw intense competition under the scorching heat, with Triple Giga advancing through the pool stage and knockout rounds to reach the finals. Uratex Dream also navigated through tough opponents to secure their spot in the championship match.
With over 8,000 participants from 25 countries, the stage is set for the best 3×3 basketball games in the finals series this October.