NBA list-up going fast

The initial response to the first-ever NBA 3-on-3 Philippines presented by Sprite has been overwhelming. With still two weeks to go before the event, slots for most of the divisions have been snapped up by eager teams of youth wanting to be a part of history.

The event was launched just June 3 at a viewing party for Game 2 of the NBA Finals at National Sports Grill, and in less than a week, the Open division was full. The NBA decided to add another 16 slots to satisfy demand, but those too quickly disappeared. The Open division of the event accepts any team of adult players, even professional basketball players.

A couple of days later, the 17 and under boys division was filled, followed by the boys’ 19 and under division. Leading to the opening of classes, several school teams hastily applied. Teams from as far away as Zamboanga, Palawan, Cebu and Laguna found ways to register. Some downloaded their forms from the official website, www.nba3on3.com/philippines.

“This is another sign that the Philippines is a top market for NBA basketball,” says Carlo Singson of NBA Asia. “Hopefully, with this kind of response, we’ll be able to make the event bigger and perhaps even add more cities in coming years.”

This year’s maiden event will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall from July 1 to 3, with NBA legend Horace Grant gracing the occasion, along with the New York Knicks dancers. Grant teamed up with Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen in the Chicago Bulls’ first three-peat run, then went on to make the Finals again with Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway with the Orlando Magic, then won his fourth championship ring with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2001.

In anticipation of a tremendous response, Sprite teamed up with KFC to create a bucket meal promo. Any group of four that buys the bucket meal will have the choice of entering the tournament or winning a chance to meet Horace Grant in person during the event. Those who’ve already won one of the two prizes may buy a second bucket meal and try to win the other prize at stake. In addition, early birds may win an autographed photo of the former NBA All-Star.

Even if all the slots for all divisions are filled, players may go to the event and join the Sprite Slam Dunk contest, the Energen Skills Challenge, and play the pop-a-shot shooting games at the venue. More courageous audience members can try their luck and dance off against the Knicks City Dancers.

The NBA will set up three half-courts in the Music Hall, and surround the scene with elements that will give the site a street feel. Spectators will also get treated to World DJ veteran Skin Kadafi and popular dance crews and cheerdance squads from various schools. The event is truly being tailored for the youth. PBA, UAAP and NCAA players and teams have already confirmed their appearance at the event, as well.