UST forward Koji Buenaflor helped Gilas Pilipinas Boys clinch a spot in the 2026 FIBA 3×3 U-23 World Cup after the team advanced to the final leg of the Youth Nations League–Asia 2 Conference on Sunday at Hextar World Empire City in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
By reaching the final, Gilas earned the 500 ranking points needed to qualify for the World Cup.
The 6-foot-7 incoming sophomore scored five points as Gilas defeated world No. 10 New Zealand, 17-11, in the group stage.
Buenaflor also contributed in the Philippines’ 20-9 victory over Singapore.
The tournament marked Buenaflor’s first stint with Gilas. He rose to prominence after playing a key role in the UST Tiger Cubs’ UAAP Season 87 championship campaign in 2025.
The 2026 FIBA 3×3 U-23 World Cup is scheduled for Sept. 15-19. Charles Martin A. Manalang
