Debuting Wilcon Depot dominated the competition at the PBA 3×3 tournament, sweeping their pool matches to secure a coveted spot in the First Conference Leg 1 quarterfinals on Monday at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
Led by TH Tumalip, Keith Datu, Ael Banal, and Yutien Andrada, Wilcon Depot left no room for doubt as they emerged victorious in every game.
They triumphed over the second-seeded Cavitex with a nail-biting 18-16 win. Then Wilcon outplayed Purefoods with a convincing 18-13 victory. Following that, they showcased their strength by defeating San Miguel with a final score of 21-16.
Their impressive performance has secured them the top spot in Pool B.
Now riding on their wave of success, Wilcon Depot aims to maintain their momentum as they face off against the third-ranked team from Pool C in the quarterfinals, taking place today.
The dominant display by Wilcon Depot was not the only highlight of the tournament.
Season 2 grand slam champion TNT Triple Giga and the formidable Barangay Ginebra also swept their pool matches, ensuring their spots in the quarterfinals.
The Triple Giga squad – consisting of Almond Vosotros, Lervin Flores, Ping Exciminiano, and Samboy de Leon – demonstrated their championship pedigree as they secured two victories in Pool A.
They defeated Blackwater 20-17 and clinched a thrilling overtime win against Pioneer with a final score of 13-11, solidifying their advancement to the next round.
Pioneer’s Gian Abrigo, Enrique Caunan, Denice Villamor, and Ken Mocon joined TNT in the quarterfinals. They finished as the second-ranked team in the group with a 1-1 record.
Their hard-fought 15-14 victory over Blackwater in the opening match propelled them into the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, Barangay Ginebra showcased their efficiency and depth by comfortably triumphing over their Pool C rivals. With the return of Donald Gumaru, Ralph Salcedo, Kim Aurin, and Ralph Cu, the Gin Kings prevailed over NorthPort with a commanding 21-11 win.
They then outscored Meralco 16-12, before dominating Terrafirma with a resounding 22-12 victory.
After an intense Day 1, Cavitex (1-1) secured the second spot in Pool B, followed by San Miguel Beer (1-2) and Purefoods (0-2). The Braves and the Titans are set to clash on Tuesday morning to conclude their elimination round.
In Pool C, Meralco (1-1), Terrafirma (1-2), and NorthPort (0-2) trailed behind the undefeated Gin Kings. The Bolts and the Batang Pier will face each other to complete the group’s elimination round.
