MANILA, Philippines – The NCAA has introduced 3x3 basketball as a special event this year, with the hopes of making it a regular event in the near future.

Over the weekend, the NCAA successfully held its first 3x3 event, with Colegio de San Juan de Letran topping the under-14 division, and Jose Rizal University (JRU) ruling the under-18 division.

The tournament was held at JRU's Kalentong campus in Mandaluyong City.

JRU athletic director Paul Supan said the event was part of the NCAA's effort to help the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) in its grassroots development program for the fast-growing sport of 3x3 basketball.

"The NCAA has always allowed our athletes to represent the country in the international tournament and we hope to do the same in 3x3 basketball," said Supan.

Eight of the 10 NCAA schools joined last weekend's event.

The league anticipates full participation in the future seasons.

Interestingly, the tournament comes at a time when the Philippines is hosting its biggest ever 3x3 event—the 2018 FIBA 3x3 World Cup scheduled June 8-12 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

"It's a special event," Supan said of 3x3, which was recently announced as an Olympic sport.

"It could be a demonstration sport in the next few seasons, and eventually, a regular event," he added.

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