HE is only 30 years old and still at the prime of his playing career, but Jayson Castro may very well retire from international play already.
According to the star guard of the Gilas Pilipinas team, the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament likely served as his last one.
The talented Castro said that he might retire from the national team.
“Siguro, this could be my last,” said Castro.
A fresh post from his Instagram account further supported his claim that his playing days for the Philippine team is likely done at this point.
“The end of our bid for a spot at the Rio Olympics will also be the end of my stint as a member of Gilas Pilipinas,” said Castro.
A many-time servant of the country, Castro expressed his pleasure of serving the national team.
“It has been my honor to represent all of you. Hindi ko makakalimutan lahat ng pinagsamahan natin,” said Castro. “Ako si Jayson Castro William, taga Guagua, Pampanga. Lumaban para sa bayan.”
Still dealing with the aftermath of Gilas Pilipinas’ disappointing campaign in the qualifier, skipper Gabe Norwood admitted that it really was a bitter pill to swallow for him and his teammates.
“It pains to be in this situation,” said Norwood. “We didn’t have any answers at a time when we needed them.
Meanwhile, the four teams vying for the lone ticket to Rio in the FIBA OQT Manila continue hostilities in the semifinals today.
Group A top seed Canada will take on New Zealand, the No. 2 rank from Group B, while Group B first placer France will dance with Group A No. 2 Turkey.
The first game between the Canadians and the Kiwis will be at 6 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, while France and Turkey go at it at 8 p.m.
Winners of both games will face each other in the finals tomorrow at 8 p.m.