GILAS Pilipinas got the blazing 2-0 start it was looking for in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers but make no mistake about it, the team knows there’s still an uphill climb ahead.
Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas patron Manny V. Pangilinan and national team coach Chot Reyes are both happy with the country’s record in the qualifiers. They also know that there’s really no reason to celebrate just yet despite the two wins against Japan and Chinese Taipei.
The Philippines and Australia are now tied for Group B lead with their 2-0 sweeps in the initial set of the home-and-away games.
Pangilinan is now looking forward to Gilas Pilipinas’ charge against the cagers from down under when they meet in February in Australia’s home turf in the second window of the tournament.
“We had a good start but Australia is still the team to beat,” said Pangilinan shortly after Gilas stopped Chinese Taipei, 90-83, Monday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. “I’m happy and proud of the team but we have plenty of work ahead.”
Reyes shared the same sentiments.
“We’re happy we’re able to grind out wins despite challenges in our preparations. The next job now is to look ahead against a very strong Australia team,” said the Gilas mentor.
As expected, Jayson Castro, the leader that he is, led the team’s charge as he averaged 20 points in the two victories. June Mar Fajardo, Calvin Abueva, Matthew Wright and Kiefer Ravena all stepped up to provide much needed support.