The Zamboanga Valientes MLV have proven themselves capable of competing in the 3×3 Pilipinas after making it to the semifinal round of the first leg of the first-ever 3×3 professional competition at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna recently.
The Valientes—the only homegrown team in the league—are hoping to improve their semifinal finish in the second leg. But nonetheless, they made Zamboanguenos proud, dedicating their achievement and hard work to them.
Owned by philantropist and businesswoman Cory Navarro and Mike Venezuela, the Valientes are composed of former Philippine Basketball Association player Rudy Lingganay, Gino Jumaoas, Med Salim, Arar de Leon and Jonjon Rebollos. They beat Saranggani, 21-19, in the elimination before defeating Palayan Capitals, 21-20.
Junnie Navarro, the son of Cory, said the Valientes were established 14 years ago to accommodate and give homegrown players of Zamboanga the chance to shine.
In fact, the Valientes started to play in a big league starting in 2006 in the National Basketball Conference and 2008 in the LIGA Pilipinas.
“Even though there are many Filipino-Americans and ex-PBA players who like to play for us, management decided to stick to the homegrown players, that’s why all the fans from Zamboanga City are very proud of this team,” said coach Joseph Romarate.
Zamboanga lost to Butuan City, 16-21, in the semifinals.