Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 suffers two defeats as Ricci Rivero suffers ankle injury

The Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 suffered two setbacks to start off their campaign in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2019 in Changsha, China last May 22.

Ricci Rivero suffered an ankle injury in the Philippines’ first game against Thailand where they lost the match, 14-11. That left with only Rhayyan Amsali, RJ Abarrientos, and Kevin Ebona to play for the next game where they faced Qatar.

Without Rivero, Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 struggled and bowed to Qatar, 21-17, to suffer another defeat.

The Philippines is now in fourth place in Qualifying Draw A with an 0-2 record, with Qatar on top with a 2-0 record in the group. Iran is in second followed by Thailand with Samoa at the bottom of the standings.

Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 will face Iran and Samoa on May 23 in hopes of still salvaging their campaign. Only the top team in each of the three qualifying groups will advance in pool play.