SBP commends UAAP’s influence on Gilas Women’s 3×3 breakthrough

Long before the bright lights of international competition, the foundation was already being built in packed collegiate gyms and campus courts. 

The recent breakthrough of the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3 Team isn’t just a story of a single tournament run—it’s the result of years of development rooted deeply in the UAAP system.

Fresh off a historic podium finish in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2026 last April 5, the Philippines carried that momentum into the FIBA 3×3 World Cup Qualifiers, where they punched their ticket to the FIBA 3×3 World Cup 2026 which marks the country’s return to the global stage for the first time since 2018.

At the heart of this rise is a group of players whose journeys are tightly intertwined with the UAAP.

Afril Bernardino, long considered a pillar of the program, once dominated for National University, collecting multiple MVP awards and recently earning a spot on the All-Asia Cup Team. Alongside her is Mikka Cacho, another product of the NU system, whose years with the Lady Bulldogs helped shape her into an international competitor.

Kacey Dela Rosa who is a decorated name in both 5-on-5 and 3×3 formats—continues to evolve as a centerpiece talent from Ateneo. Meanwhile, UST’s Tantoy Ferrer and Adamson Universities’ Cheska Apag represent the pipeline still in motion, transitioning from standout collegiate and junior careers into the demands of international play.

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𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒!

A HISTORIC run from the side as they booked their first #3x3WC ticket since 2018!

Relive their best moments from Singapore! pic.twitter.com/oJtaNagprX

— 3×3 Basketball | FIBA3x3 (@FIBA3x3) April 14, 2026

For Erika Dy of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, the connection is clear, a sustained success at the national level begins with consistent development at the collegiate level. 

The UAAP has quietly become one of the federation’s most reliable talent sources, proving that structured competition can translate into global readiness.

That sentiment is echoed by Ryan Gregorio, who highlighted how crucial that partnership has been.

“We are proud to have the UAAP as a strong partner and stakeholder of the federation,” said Gregorio. “They have always been willing to help in national team-building and in developing the next generation of players who can compete at the international level,” Gregorio said.

But the influence of the UAAP doesn’t stop at the collegiate ranks. Its investment in grassroots programs, particularly in women’s basketball—has created a steady pipeline, ensuring that the next wave of talent is already in development.

UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag underscored that broader vision, “the UAAP is committed to invest in and grow women’s sports across all levels. From grassroots to the collegiate stage, we recognize equal importance as we create equal opportunities to sustain this momentum that our student-athletes are now showcasing on the world stage.

What the recent World Cup qualification ultimately reveals is this: Gilas Women’s success is no longer built on isolated bursts of brilliance. It’s becoming a product of continuity—from high school leagues to college rivalries, and now, to international arenas.

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