Kobe Paras to lead PH in FIBA 3X3 U-18 Championship

Kobe Paras is back in the Philippines to prepare for the FIBA 3X3 Under-18 Championship in Hungary from June 4 to 7.

Paras, who now studies in Cathedral High School in Los Angeles, will represent the country in the tournament together with Ateneo's Mike Nieto, Far Eastern University's Richard Escoto, and La Salle Greenhills' Richie Rivero.

The teen said he is glad to team up with the other three, whom he used to play with before he flew to the United States to pursure his basketball dream abroad.

"I was pretty happy 'cause I've been teammates with Michael Nieto, Richard Escoto and Ricci Rivero," said Paras, who is set to play with the UCLA Bruins in the NCAA in 2016.

The 6-foot-6 shooting guard is also confident of their chances to compete at a high-level in the tournament, having big guys Nieto and Escoto to protect the rim.

"They play four, five, like centers so at least they're medyo bulky enough to go up against bigger guys," he said.

Paras became basketball sensation in the 2013 FIBA 3X3 Slam Dunk Competition, where he bagged first place after impressing with his high-flying ability. - RAF, GMA News