Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Men's Team Announced for FIBA Asia Cup 2026 in Singapore
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has officially unveiled the Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Men's squad for the upcoming FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Singapore from April 1 to 5, 2026. The team will be spearheaded by a mix of professional and collegiate talent, with the primary objective of securing a podium finish and advancing towards qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Star-Studded Lineup Features PBA Veterans and UP Standout
The roster includes Jerrick Ahanmisi from Terrafirma, Chris Koon representing Magnolia Chicken Timplados, and Ralph Cu of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. Joining these PBA players is Sean Alter, the 6'9" big man from the University of the Philippines, adding height and versatility to the squad. This selection highlights a collaborative effort between the SBP, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) to assemble a competitive team.
Strong Support System and Olympic Aspirations
SBP Executive Director Erika Dy expressed gratitude for the support from basketball organizations, stating, "We thank the leadership of the PBA and UAAP for allowing their players to represent the country in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup." The team's preparation has been bolstered by practice players such as Joseph Eriobu, Javi Gomez de Liano, Dom Fajardo, and Robbie Herndon, under the guidance of trainers Kirk Collier, Patrick Fran, and JJ Espanola.
3x3 Program Director Ryan Gregorio emphasized the collective commitment, noting, "PBA Chairman Ricky Vargas, Vice Chairman Alfrancis Chua, and Commissioner Willie Marcial supported the idea to include PBA players to be part of the pool, and the UAAP did the same for us." Additional backing from the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation and NLEX, facilitated by PBA Governor Ronald Dulatre, further strengthens the program's resources.
Qualifying Challenges and Historical Context
In the qualifying stage, Gilas 3x3 must overcome Thailand and the Maldives to advance to the main draw of the tournament. The team aims to achieve the Philippines' first-ever podium finish in the regional competition, building on the country's best result in 2022, when it placed fourth after a narrow 20-18 loss to China in the bronze medal game.
The SBP has renewed its dedication to supporting all national basketball teams, with a clear focus on Olympic qualification. Gregorio added, "And when the SBP presented the possibility of us being involved in the Men’s 3x3 program, we did not hesitate. We heeded the call from SBP President and PBA Chairman Ricky Vargas to renew the commitment to 3x3 in terms of hopes of making it to the Olympics."
