JUAN Gomez de Liano stood out in his first game in the UAAP 3x3 men’s basketball tournament in wearing shorts a little bit shorter than usual.
The University of the Philippines star on Sunday decided to wear his shorts an inch higher for the Fighting Maroons’ morning match against National University.
But Gomez de Liano said he merely trying to shake things up with his style, even as he joins more young cagers in bringing back the short shorts.
“New wave. Trend setter. Try something new,” said Gomez de Liano, when asked about his shorts.
However, Gomez de Liano got back to the usual baggy shorts in the next games but the Fighting Maroons were unable to reach the semifinal round of the inaugural 3x3 tournament.
“Pero sayang talo. We lost our chance. We had high hopes but we fell short. We will get better next year,” Gomez de Liano said.
The young UP cager is no longer new to the 3x3 game, having played for the Philippines in the Fiba 3x3 World Cup last year.
Gomez de Liano, the UAAP Season 80 Rookie of the Year, is happy the collegiate league was able to stage the 3x3 even though it is still not an official event.
“Masaya ‘yung feeling na may 3-on-3 na sa UAAP. Ito ‘yung Pinoy style of basketball. We play 3-on-3. It’s getting to a bigger stage. It’s nice to see,” Gomez de Liano said.
The UP cager said he is for 3x3 to be played in the UAAP, and is open to playing for the Maroons if the event becomes a regular sport.
“I played for the Under-18 national team. Why not play it here di ba? I hope they push through with the plan kasi exciting siya. Mas tiring siya sa 5-on-5 game,” said Gomez de Liano.