The team was composed of Filipino-American Taylor Statham, Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Developmental League (D-League) first draft pick Joshua Munzon, National University (NU) Bulldog Troy Rike, and making his debut, Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Bacoor City Striker Leo de Vera, who was filling in for an injured Dylan Ababou.
As a reaction to their win, and their totalling 360 points in the five legs during the semifinals, Statham shared, “There’s a lot riding on it for me and it’s bigger than basketball. I came here for one reason and one reason only, and that is to play 3×3 and represent the Philippines. I want to be part of the team that goes to the World Tour. I want to make my grandma proud, my family from Iloilo proud.”
Munzon, who scored 11 points during the finals, said, “It’s attributed to our hard work. Since we first lost in this league, that really left a bad taste on our mouths. We’re driven every week to push ourselves to get better.” He was also named the tournament’s best player.
“We’ve been practicing for the physicality. It’s something we have to get used to. I feel like we’ve been a target since week one,” he added.
At the end of the ceremony, Pasig was awarded a check for P1 million, while the runners-up were given P200,000 after BAVI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ronald Mascarinas announced that they will not go home empty-handed.
Due to their win, the Grindhouse Kings will now head to the Doha Masters during the 2019 Fiba world Tour in Qatar from April 18 to 19. Along with the 1Bataan Risers, Pasig will also be representing the country during the 2019 Chooks-to-Go 3×3 Asia Pacific Super Quest happening from April 6 to 7 at the SM Megamall Fashion Hall.