Tol brings back Court Queens

MANILA, Philippines — Former  Senate Majority Leader and DOLE Secretary Francis (Tol) Tolentino opens a new chapter in the Court Queens series as he launches the second edition of the elite women’s 3x3 competition at the Sky Ranch, Tagaytay City, tomorrow with 12 teams, including foreign entry Singapore U23, participating in the two-day event.

The teams are split into four groups of three. The top two finishers in each group advance to the knockout quarterfinals with the winners moving on to the semifinals. A battle for third will precede the final with a P250,000 grand prize. “Court Queens is not simply about winning games,” said Tolentino. “It’s about building a platform for Filipino women basketball players to compete, develop their talents and gain international recognition. From our inaugural tournament last year to our U18 competition this year, we are creating opportunities for both young and elite athletes.” The event also enhances Tagaytay’s reputation as a destination for major sporting activities.

The Philippines’ silver finish in women’s 3x3 at the recent Asian Games has fueled renewed interest in the Olympic sport. Tolentino is hoping Court Queens can play a key role in developing a stronger pool of women players capable of competing at higher levels. In Group A are defending champion Uratex Dream, Adamson and Nextgen. Group B is composed of Hustle Manila, UP and Philippine Air Force. Making up Group C are Singapore U23, La Salle Dasmariñas and Manila Queenpin South. Tol Patriots, UA&P and Beyound are in Group D.

Marking his return to hoops is Patriots coach Bonnie Tan, a three-time NCAA champion and former PBA tactician. His players are Gilas standout 5-4 Stef Berberabe of Westmont College (California), two-time UAAP women’s 3x3 champion 5-7 Kent Pastrana, Ateneo’s 5-8 Cara Buendia and former Hofstra/Shaw University 6-1 forward Zaniya Barnes. “My first time to coach women and 3x3,” noted Tan. “New challenge. I couldn’t say no to Sec. Tol, a very nice guy and very passionate about sports. When he asked me to assist his team, I said OK right away. Berberabe and Pastrana are really good, smart and talented. Buendia and Barnes are working hard, improving every day. After (a consultant job with) Titan in PBA, I’m now enjoying my run with Tol Patriots. After this tournament, we’ll see what God has planned next.”