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Gilas Pilipinas Gears Up For FIBA Basketball World Cup Amidst Intense Preparation
Photo credit: SBP
With only a few days remaining until the highly anticipated FIBA Basketball World Cup tips off at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan, the Filipino national team, Gilas Pilipinas, is showing no signs of slowing down. Despite a series of grueling tune-up games, Gilas Pilipinas remains focused on their goal of emerging as the top Asian finisher in the tournament and securing a spot in the Paris Olympics next year.
Coach Chot Reyes, known for his commitment to the team's success, has made it clear that rest is not on the agenda. Even after facing three challenging tune-up games, including a clash against world No. 18 Montenegro and Chicago Bulls star Nikola Vucevic, Coach Reyes is determined to keep the momentum going.
"We won't be taking a break anymore. Just three days left," said Coach Reyes after Montenegro's victory over Gilas Pilipinas in a 102-87 match at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. Despite a strong start in the first half, Gilas Pilipinas struggled to maintain their lead as Montenegro gained momentum in the third quarter.
Coach Reyes utilized a 14-man roster against Montenegro, strategically managing player rotations to maximize their performance. Key players Ray Parks and Thirdy Ravena were rested, while Calvin Oftana was given playing time after missing the Ivory Coast friendly due to injury.
As the clock ticks down to the start of the World Cup, all indications point to Coach Reyes intensifying the team's training sessions to fine-tune their gameplay. The Final 12 lineup for the tournament will be announced at the Managers' Meeting scheduled for August 23 or 24.
Gilas Pilipinas is set to open their World Cup campaign on August 25 against the Dominican Republic, a FIBA Americas qualifier. The team's quest for success continues with matches against FIBA Africa entry Angola on August 27 and a showdown against world No. 10 Italy from FIBA Europe on August 29.
Securing two victories out of these initial three matches could pave the way for Gilas Pilipinas to advance to the second round of the Group Phase. In this phase, they could potentially face formidable opponents from the bracket that includes South Sudan, China, Puerto Rico, and Serbia.
The Dominican Republic, led by Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns, has showcased its strength in preparatory friendlies. Despite a close loss to defending champion Spain, Coach Reyes acknowledges the Dominican Republic's prowess, describing Towns as a "legitimate NBA All-Star first team player."
As Gilas Pilipinas prepares for the World Cup, fans eagerly await their journey in the tournament. With determination and hard work, the team aims to make their mark on the international stage and secure a place in the Paris Olympics. The basketball world watches as the Philippines' finest athletes take on the global challenge with passion and dedication.
Coach Chot Reyes, known for his commitment to the team's success, has made it clear that rest is not on the agenda. Even after facing three challenging tune-up games, including a clash against world No. 18 Montenegro and Chicago Bulls star Nikola Vucevic, Coach Reyes is determined to keep the momentum going.
"We won't be taking a break anymore. Just three days left," said Coach Reyes after Montenegro's victory over Gilas Pilipinas in a 102-87 match at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. Despite a strong start in the first half, Gilas Pilipinas struggled to maintain their lead as Montenegro gained momentum in the third quarter.
Coach Reyes utilized a 14-man roster against Montenegro, strategically managing player rotations to maximize their performance. Key players Ray Parks and Thirdy Ravena were rested, while Calvin Oftana was given playing time after missing the Ivory Coast friendly due to injury.
As the clock ticks down to the start of the World Cup, all indications point to Coach Reyes intensifying the team's training sessions to fine-tune their gameplay. The Final 12 lineup for the tournament will be announced at the Managers' Meeting scheduled for August 23 or 24.
Gilas Pilipinas is set to open their World Cup campaign on August 25 against the Dominican Republic, a FIBA Americas qualifier. The team's quest for success continues with matches against FIBA Africa entry Angola on August 27 and a showdown against world No. 10 Italy from FIBA Europe on August 29.
Securing two victories out of these initial three matches could pave the way for Gilas Pilipinas to advance to the second round of the Group Phase. In this phase, they could potentially face formidable opponents from the bracket that includes South Sudan, China, Puerto Rico, and Serbia.
The Dominican Republic, led by Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns, has showcased its strength in preparatory friendlies. Despite a close loss to defending champion Spain, Coach Reyes acknowledges the Dominican Republic's prowess, describing Towns as a "legitimate NBA All-Star first team player."
As Gilas Pilipinas prepares for the World Cup, fans eagerly await their journey in the tournament. With determination and hard work, the team aims to make their mark on the international stage and secure a place in the Paris Olympics. The basketball world watches as the Philippines' finest athletes take on the global challenge with passion and dedication.
Aug 22, 2023
