Chooks 3x3 scores upsets

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Chooks! pulled off a giant upset yesterday in Doha, Qatar with a 14-12 overtime win over world No. 3 Antwerp TOPdesk of Belgium in the level-9 FIBA 3x3 EXPO Al Bidda Park Challenger.

Former UP Maroon Paul Desiderio fired clutch baskets as the Philippine three-a-side squad topped Antwerp following earlier win over world No. 12 Futian of China.

Chooks-to-Go vice president Mel Macasaquit lauded the efforts by Manila Chooks! and pointed to their teamwork as the key.

“Beating top-tier teams like world No. 12 Futian of China and taking down world No. 3 Antwerp of Belgium is a testament to the hard work that our players and coaches are putting in every day,” Macasaquit said. “Chemistry is finally clicking and their pride to play for the country was evident in how they refused to give up.”

Tosh Sesay notched seven points and 12 rebounds for the gritty Manila Chooks! squad, while Dennis Santos, the fourth-ranked 3x3 cager in the country, chipped in four points.