Perez banners Philippine 3x3 team

MANILA,Philippines — PBA super rookie CJ Perez banners the four-man Philippine squad looking to rule the inaugural 3x3 basketball in the 30th Southeast Asian Games.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio announced yesterday the makeup of the PBA-backed roster that also includes Meralco guard Chris Newsome, Phoenix forward Jason Perkins and San Miguel versatile big man Mo Tautuaa. Blackwater’s Mac Belo completes the squad as reserve.

SMB’s Terrence Romeo, Magnolia’s Ian Sangalang and Chris Banchero, Blackwater’s Anthony Semerad, Meralco’s Raymond Almazan and NorthPort’s Robert Bolick (injured) were the final cuts from the original 12-man training pool of coach Ronnie Magsanoc.

“With the aim of winning the country’s first ever SEA Games gold medal in 3x3 basketball while also making sure that it gets more attention from Philippine basketball fans, the SBP has put together a team that could accomplish both tasks,” said Panlilio. “Our squad is composed of a versatile bunch and we’re confident that their hard work will pay off.”

Panlilio, however, played down a sure gold medal finish hype for the Philippine quartet similar to the expectations on the stacked 5-on-5 team under coach Tim Cone, saying 3x3 basketball is a whole different game.

“It will be tough because it’s a different game. But maybe talent would be our edge. We’re banking on that,“ Panlilio told The STAR.