In an early Wednesday morning spectacle, Manila Chooks! executed what could arguably be deemed one of their greatest upsets in history. Fueled by the newfound synergy of their quartet, Manila Chooks! secured a thrilling 14-12 overtime triumph over Antwerp TOPdesk, a team ranked third globally from Belgium, at the level-9 FIBA 3×3 EXPO Al Bidda Park Challenger in Doha, Qatar.

While the majority of Filipino basketball enthusiasts were still in slumber during the early hours, Paul Desiderio, a standout in the Philippines’ 3×3 scene, seemed to clinch the game-winning shot. However, a vigilant referee determined that Desiderio had stepped on the two-point line, reducing the deuce to a single point.

Nevertheless, this twist in the plot proved anticlimactic for the favored Belgian squad. In a pivotal moment, Desiderio connected with a cutting Tosh Sesay for a game-deciding basket, celebrated fervently by a contingent of Overseas Filipino Workers present in the stands.

The enthusiastic cheers of these OFWs epitomized the deep-rooted love and passion for the sport that Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas has played a significant role in elevating to national prominence.

Mel Macasaquit, Vice President of Chooks-to-Go, commended the remarkable effort displayed by Manila Chooks! and attributed their success to their exceptional teamwork. “Defeating top-tier teams like world No. 12 Futian of China and taking down world No. 3 Antwerp of Belgium underscores the dedication of our players and coaches,” Macasaquit emphasized. “Their chemistry has finally clicked, and their unwavering national pride was evident in their refusal to concede. This achievement brings great honor not only to our brand but to our nation as well.”

Tosh Sesay played a pivotal role, contributing seven points and securing 12 rebounds for the resilient Manila Chooks! team, while Dennis Santos, the fourth-ranked 3×3 player in the Philippines, added four points and five rebounds. Marcus Hammonds and Desiderio combined for an additional five points.

On the opposing side, Dennis Donkor, ranked ninth globally, led the charge for Antwerp TOPdesk with six points and two rebounds, with Mohamed Kherrazi contributing three points. Jonas Foerts and Vic Van Oosterwyck added two and one point, respectively. (Amado Inigo/mnm)