BOCAUE, Bulacan – Philippine women 3×3 team’s Janine Pontejos captured the gold medal in the 2018 FIBA 3×3 World Cup 3-point shootout contest at the Philippine Arena.
The Centro Escolar University Lady Scorpions star caught fire and finished with 14 points, including a perfect 5-of-5 shooting from the top of the key, in 41.86 seconds Tuesday.
Finishing behind the Lemery, Batangas native were Alexandra Stolyar of Russia, who also scored 14 points but needed 49.92 seconds to complete it, and Croatia’s Marin Hrvoje, who had 11 points in 44.3 seconds.
“Even if we lost, I never lost hope that we can still bring honor to the Philippines because of the shootout,” said Pontejos. “I felt more confident because my teammates and coaches pushed me.”
Pontejos’ feat is historic for the Philippines – it was the country’s first-ever medal in FIBA World 3×3.
“I’m really proud that I won this gold medal, which is our first gold medal in the World Cup if I’m not mistaken,” the 25-year-old added. “I’m proud to be a Filipino. This is for the Philippines.”
Italy – behind fan-favorite Rae Lin D’Alie, Giulia Rulli and Giulia Ciavarella – captured the women’s 3×3 title after a 16-12 victory over Russia.
Serbia’s reign as the best men’s 3×3 federation in the world extended to three years as it defeated Netherlands 16-13. The winning team comprised Stefan Stojacic, Marko Savic and Dusan Bulut./PN
