ALMOST but not enough for Team Makabayan Pilipinas.

Team Makabayan, led by former PBA player James Martinez, fell to Luang Prabang of Laos in the semifinals of the 3×3 Basketball Air Sea Land Phuket 2025 in Patong Beach, Kathu, Thailand.

The Filipinos settled for second runner-up honors.

“Masaya na dinkami sa team dahil umabot naman kami sa semifinals at makuha yung third-place trophy,” said Martinez, who also served as playing coach.

“It was a great experience for us, and we will prepare even more for the next 3×3 tournament,” said Martinez, adding the team was invited again in another FIBA-sanctioned competition.

“We’ve been invited again to represent the Philippines in India this June,” added Martinez.

After sweeping the elimination round with a 4-0 win-loss record, Makabayan Pilipinas advanced to the semifinals after edging Russia’s LH Monsters in overtime, 15-13, in the quarterfinals.

The Filipinos, however. could not sustain their momentum in the semis.

Martinez expressed his gratitude to those who continue to support and believe in him and his team.

“Walang hanggang pasasalamat sa mga patuloy na sumusuporta sa amin. Si boss Keir De Leon ng MEBL, JR Guevara ng EOG, Jett Maronilla ng MC Sports Management, JB Baylon, Lester Pascua ng Nickel Asia Corporation, boss BC Magic, and boss Gino, Moo Academy ni Moo Aparnon. Pati na si Pawlo Misolas ng Sprinto Shades as my official eyewear,” said Martinez.

Martinez is no stranger to international basketball competition. In fact, he led the Phuket Waves to a championship in the Thailand Basketball League.

Martinez teamed up with Moo Aparnon, Ekgarin Pronphukhiew, and Grant Ackermann.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Robert Andaya