The support of a big crowd on opening day Friday will certainly be a big boost for Gilas Pilipinas when it plays its first game against a confident Dominican Republic at the start of their campaigns in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan
With spectators expected to reach a record 50,000 or more, Team Philippines comes into their 8 p.m. fight against the Nestor Garcia-coached Dominicanos with an aggressive mindset and a taller roster from previous national squads.
Coach Chot Reyes is bringing in a “sizeable” but fast team, finalized Wednesday after Thirdy Ravena, Calvin Oftana and Bobby Ray Parks were excluded in the final cut.
“One thing is for sure, we need the support of the crowd. We have to be able to punch above our weight. The crowd will be a good determining factor,” said Reyes.
Seven-foot-three Kai Sotto and Scottie Thompson are returning from injury, and are expected to blend with Utah Jazz star Jordan Clarkson in Gilas’ bid to come up with a “perfect game” against the Dominicans.
The three will make up Gilas’ move to be more fast-paced against the Dominicans, along with Kiefer Ravena, CJ Perez, Roger Pogoy, Dwight Ramos, Jamie Malonzo, Japeth Aguilar, Junemar Fajardo and AJ Edu.
“The most important thing is for us to come in with a very calm, focused, intentional, yet aggressive mindset coming into the ballgame,” added Reyes, stressing Gilas will need to minimize their turnovers, which have bothered them during their tuneups.
Dominican Republic
Garcia said the presence of a big crowd in Bulacan excites the Dominicans, and their preparation in the clash with Gilas will be a big key to victory.
The Dominicans, according to Garcia, have been upbeat ever since they qualified to the tournament proper with their 79-75 upset of Argentina in the second round of the qualifiers.
“We are in a good mood right now because we qualified for the World Cup, and won the title in Central America,” said Garcia, who added that the players have gained each other’s trust going into their first match in Group with the Filipinos.
The Dominicans’ game will see Minnesota Timberwolves big man Karl Anthony Towns leading the charge.
Towns, a three-time NBA All-Star, who was ejected during a physical tuneup encounter with Canada, is expected to dominate the boards.
He is expected to get the help of veterans of their last World Cup campaign, Victor Liz, Eloy Vargas and Luis Mendoza.
“It will be extra motivation to the players to play against a big crowd,” added Garcia.
Younger stars like Jean Montero, Lester Quinones, Justin Minaya and Andres Feliz will be there to boost the Dominicans’ bid against Gilas.