Pioneer finally makes PBA 3x3 debut, stuns SMB

Robin Rono took charge for the debuting Pro TIbay. PBA Images
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--After having trouble clearing themselves for action the night before, Pioneer Epoxy finally got to play in the PBA 3x3 on Sunday.

The quartet of Carlo Escalambre, Robin Rono, Carlo Dechavez, and Gian Abrigo was finally given the green light to play at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig after submitting the necessary medical clearance.

And the team issued a statement, stunning San Miguel, 22-18.

Rono led the Pro Tibay with eight markers, while Escalambre added five points including the dagger deuce that put a dent to the Beermen's erstwhile flawless record.

Despite the win, the forfeiture losses Pioneer incurred on Saturday might hurt its chances of making the playoffs especially since CAVITEX and NorthPort will play later Sunday to determine which team will join SMB in the quarterfinals outright among the Pool C squads.

In the first game of the day, Terrafirma ended its pool stage stint with a 21-11 rout of Sista.

Roider Cabrera fired nine points, while Terrence Tumalip added seven as the Dyip bolstered its bid to make the quarterfinals outright for Pool B.

The result also put some pressure on Ginebra to beat Meralco later Sunday to keep its playoff hopes alive.

1st Game

Terrafirma 21 - Cabrera 9, Tumalip 7, Salem 3, Reverente 2.

Sista 11 - Rivero 6, De Vera 4, Argamino 1, Mocon 0.

2nd Game

Pioneer 22 - Rono 8, Escalambre 5, De Chavez 5, Abrigo 4.

San Miguel 18 - Manday 6, Austria 6, Vigil 5, Mangahas 1.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno