GILAS Pilipinas finally got the ball rolling on Monday when it gathers together for the first time in its preparation for the FIBA Asia Cup.
CJ Perez, Scottie Thompson, Jamie Malonzo, Chris Newsome, RJ Abarrientos, Japeth Aguilar, Troy Rosario, Carl Tamayo, and Dwight Ramos were among those who showed up at the Upper Deck Sports Center in Ortigas as the national team assemble for the very first time since the Asia Cup qualifiers.
Veteran LA Tenorio was also around as part of the Gilas coaching staff.
Understandably, coach Tim Cone said organizing as a whole unit at the moment is not feasible considering the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup playoffs.
"But right now, this is just the first step, a baby step of coming together, with who is available," said the Gilas mentor.
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"There was really no court time that we were planning. It was just really meeting, going over some video of our last games (FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers)."
At the same time, Cone revealed the decision of the team to add Magnolia big man Zavier Lucero and former NCAA Rookie-MVP Rhenz Abando to the list of players it will submit for the Asia Cup.
Abarrientos and Rosario, who have been part of the pool previously, were also added by Cone and his coaching staff.
"RJ is part of our long list. Troy's part of our long list. We added a couple of guys to our long list. We actually added (Zavier) Lucero, but he's in the States at the moment, and Rhenz Abando," said Cone.
Only Newsome, Ramos, and Tamayo did some court shooting, while the rest left shortly after the team was through with its viewing.
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Cone added the coaching staff decided to call off a scheduled practice also at the same venue the day after as it comes on the eve of the deciding Game 7 between Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel for the remaining finals berth in the all-Filipino conference.
"Looking at Game 7 coming up, we decided we wouldn't do it. We'll call it off," said Cone.(RG)
