The inaugural Cebu Hustle 3x3 women's international invitational officially launches this weekend at SM Seaside City Cebu's Mountain Wing, marking the Philippines' first international women's 3x3 basketball tournament. The event features 12 teams, including six local squads and six visiting sides from various countries.
Organizers Express Gratitude
Tournament director Peachy Cheng-Medina, a former Philippine national team member, thanked Cebu for its support. "We thank Cebu for embracing our tournament. Ever since we started conceptualizing this event, we've had nothing but support from Cebu and it humbles us so much. Cebu is a basketball-crazy city, so it's just the right place for us to present women's 3x3 basketball," she said.
Homegrown Teams Face Challenges
Cebu's two homegrown teams, Move Liloan and UP Cebu, aim to make their fellow Cebuanos proud. Move Liloan is led by Kath Jumapao, Kristel Pitogo, Lyssa Lubiano, and Sharlene Owatan, while UP Cebu relies on Althea Degamo, Maxim Magbanua, Jessha Banquil, and Lourien Navarro.
SBP Zone 8 Director Popoy Navarro expressed excitement: "We finally have an international-level 3x3 competition coming to town and I'm very excited as a Cebuano fan to see how our top talents compete against what I can say are the best teams in the region."
Celebrating Women Athletes
Cebu City Sports Commission chairman Dr. Rhoel Dejaño highlighted the event's significance: "This event is more than just a competition. It is a celebration of the talent, determination, and passion of our women athletes."
Gilas Pilipinas Women U23 3x3 Team
The Gilas Pilipinas Women U23 3x3 team will represent the country, with a roster consisting of Louna Ozar, Amyah Español, Jam Meniano, and Victoria Pasilang. Other strong local contenders include Uratex Dream, Pilipinas Aguilas, and TOL Patriots.
International Participants
Representing the international field are Japan's Maurice Lacroix and Shinjuku Givers 3x3, Thailand's Shoot It Dragons and CT Tigers, Malaysia's EST Jersey, and Singapore's Jumpshot.
Tournament Format
Games begin at 12 noon on Saturday, June 20, 2026, with the 12 teams divided into four groups of three for pool play. The knockout stage follows on Sunday to determine the inaugural champion.
