128 teams to vie in BEST 3x3

MANILA, Philippines - The Basketball Efficiency Scientific Training (BEST) together with Milo Ready to Drink will stage its first BEST Center 3x3 tournament on Nov. 15 at the Ateneo de Manila covered courts.

A total of 128 teams made up of 512 players will see action in the one-day event. There will be two categories for players aged 15-under and 12-under.

It’s the first time the BEST Center, a grassroots basketball program founded by Nic Jorge in 1978, is staging a 3x3 event at this level.

“We’ve been thinking about this for a long time as part of basketball’s development program but it’s only now that we found the right sponsor,” said Jorge.

Speaking at the PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate, the former Philippine team head coach said the event is also in line with the programs of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Also gracing the forum sponsored by Shakey’s, Accel, San Miguel Corporation and Pagcor are BEST Center tournament manager Edwin Barber, Milo sports executive Robbie de Vera and Nestle Philippines marketing promotions and events executive Raine Capadocia.

Teams from Metro Manila, Baguio, Pangasinan, Pampanga and Lucena among others will see action on Nov. 15. Jorge said the event is not limited to school teams.

“Even the barangays can field their teams,” he said.

“Our partnership with BEST Center is part of Milo’s endeavor supporting grassroots program,” said De Vera, adding that their newest partnership with BEST is good for five years.

“Of course, there are plans to expand. When Milo gets into something it’s always for the long term,” added the Milo sports executive.