The Zamboanga Valientes MLV will be bringing their act to Canberra to compete in 3X3 Christmas Hustle—one of the biggest 3×3 leagues in Australia—on December 12 at the Belconnen 3×3 outdoor courts-42 Oatley court.
After the team’s debut in the Chooks-to-Go 3×3 Pilipinas recently in Laguna, MLV Group CEO Mike Venezuela has assembled the best players from Zamboanga for the Australian sojourn as a start of their campaign internationally.
“The Valientes are playing internationally now. They have the most fans because they are composed mostly of homegrown players and proven winners,” said Junnie Navarro, the son of team owner Cory Navarro.
The management of the Valientes, added Navarro, will make sure that this team will be getting the experience and exposure playing against the best players in Australia.
The Valientes, who will be missing Gino Jumaoas and Das Esa, have included Zamboanga’s ex-NCRAA mythical team member Chris Concepcion, Eric Miraflores, Sudanese-Australian Duom Dawam and 18-year-old prospect Adam Compton to the team.
“Gino and Esa didn’t make it on time here in Australia while the rest of the players like Chris have been able to secure their passports and other requirements before the lockdown,” added Navarro, who is helping Zamboanga native athletes in different sports.
The Valientes are also thankful to the support of Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco.
Concepcion expressed excitement over playing and representing Zamboanga in the Australian continent.
“This is the start of Zamboanga Valientes’ campaign playing in international tournaments to give the players the exposure,” said the 5’10” Concepcion. “We will be giving our best to win this tournament. This is for Zamboanga city and our country. We maybe small but we have a big heart.”