TERRENCE Romeo is taking his flashy brand of basketball from the PBA to the halfcourt stage, as the former Gilas Pilipinas star joins Manila Melmac for the FIBA 3×3 Manila Challenger on September 20–21 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.
The 32-year-old guard, long known for his scoring artistry in the PBA, is returning to 3×3 for the first time in a decade. Romeo last saw action in the format back in 2014, when he played for Manila West in the FIBA 3×3 World Tour also held on home soil.
This latest chapter in his career was made possible through the support of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, led by executive director Erika Dy, and Melmac Sports founder Mel Macasaquit, who personally reached out to Romeo.
“Kuya Mel asked if I could play 3×3 again, and I told him I’m ready anytime for the country. Hindi ko kailangan ng kahit anong offer basta para sa bayan, available ako,” Romeo said during the team’s practice in Mandaluyong.
Romeo, who admitted the decision was also about loyalty and gratitude to Macasaquit, said he is eager to test himself again in the shorter, faster-paced format.
“Ten years ago na iyong last na laro ko sa 3×3 and excited ako ulit na maglaro para sa country natin,” he added.
Romeo will form a potent squad with Mac Tallo, Abdul Sawat, and Henry Iloka, under coach Chico Lanete.
“Asahan ng fans na ibibigay ko iyong best ko,” Romeo said. “Gagawin ko iyong best ko para makatulong sa team and hopefully, makuha namin iyong goal namin.”
The former three-time PBA scoring champion is officially a free agent after he completed his contract with Terrafirma, giving him the freedom to sign with any PBA team of his choice.
