Team Melmac Sports is wasting no time in answering the call of flag and country.
Barely days after receiving an invitation, the Philippine squad is set to compete in the JB FIBA 3×3 Lite Quest International 2026, scheduled for June 27 to 28 at The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.
Leading the country’s campaign are local 3×3 standouts Chester Saldua, TH Tumalip, Gian Abrigo, and pro dunker David Carlos, who all committed to the national cause despite the short turnaround.
The invitation reached Melmac Sports only on June 23, but founder Mel Macasaquit quickly assembled the team’s best available lineup, continuing his long-standing commitment to promoting Philippine 3×3 basketball on the international stage.
Before departing for Malaysia, the squad was given a send-off by Melmac Sports on Thursday, June 25, as they prepared to take on some of the region’s strongest halfcourt teams.
With only a handful of days to prepare, Team Melmac maximized its training sessions at the FIBA-standard 3×3 court inside Melmac Sports at Vista Mall Imus. The facility allowed the quartet to quickly build chemistry while adapting to the pace and demands of international competition.
The team’s preparations also received a boost from Planet Melmac, the Singapore-based fried chicken chain whose first Philippine branch is located within the Melmac Sports complex, providing recovery meals throughout training.
Among the players expected to draw attention is Carlos, whose reputation as one of the world’s elite dunkers precedes him. This weekend, however, the veteran aims to showcase another side of his game, looking to contribute with his experience, versatility, and 3×3 savvy for the SMART-backed squad.
Team Melmac opens its campaign against Singapore at 11:00 a.m. on June 27 before facing Turkmenistan at 12:50 p.m. later in the day.
A berth in the FIBA 3×3 Utsunomiya Challenger in Japan awaits the tournament champion, making the Johor Bahru stop a crucial stepping stone on the international 3×3 circuit.
Fans can catch the tournament live through the official FIBA 3×3 YouTube channel.
