MANILA, Philippines - The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and Talk ‘N Text will stage the TNT Tatluhan, a nationwide 3-on-3 basketball competition for the youth with the winner earning the right to represent the country in the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) tournament.
Aimed at promoting basketball at the grassroots level, the FIBA-endorsed TNT Tatluhan is open to any team of three players (plus an alternate player) under 18 years old. The nationwide tournament will run from March to May composed of 20 legs that will culminate in a national championship in Manila.
Aside from special prizes, the top four TNT Tatluhan teams will get a chance to train under TNT Tropang Texters with the national champion competing in the FIBA international tournament to be hosted by the country in July.
“Through TNT Tatluhan, we are finalizing the three-on-three format, which has been played by Filipinos in the streets, in parking areas, barangays. The format actually started the basketball development in the Philippines, and this tournament will be a big boost to our country’s sports program,†said Moying Martelino, SBP senior consultant.
“As the leading mobile prepaid brand in the country, TNT’s reach will be instrumental in promoting SBP’s thrust,†said Carlo Endaya, marketing head of TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications, Inc. “The Tatluhan will help many of our subscribers to fulfill their dreams of playing alongside the best players of the country. Again, this is a concrete way for us to bring ‘panalo’ moments to them,†he added.
To join TNT Tatluhan, all team members must be TNT subscribers before registering. Local announcements will be made by SBP regional heads for specific registration details.
The TNT Tatluhan venues will be spread throughout five key areas, with four legs of competition each: Area 1-Metro Manila; Area 2-Northern and Central Luzon (CAR, Regions I, II and III); Area 3- Southern Luzon (Region IV and V) and Palawan; Area 4-Visayas (Region VI, VII and VIII); and Area 5- Mindanao. The top teams for each area will be sent to Metro Manila for the national finals.
Aside from the tournament, TNT Tatluhan will also feature basketball clinics, photo booths, raffles and other activities.
For details, like and follow TNT’s official account on Facebook www.facebook.com/TalkNText and Twitter https://twitter.com/TalkNText) or visit the website at www.talkntext.com.ph