Three Gilas Pilipinas players from the Japan B.League showed up at the national men’s team practice sessions on Wednesday and are looking forward to Team Philippines’ games in the fifth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Kiefer Ravena, who currently plays for the Shiga Lakestars, said this after he and his brother Thirdy, along with Bobby Ray Parks, took part in Wednesday’s training since returning from Tokyo.
“The team is looking good with the core players from the last window,” said the 29-year-old Ravena.
The Philippines is set to play away-games against Jordan and Saudi Arabia on Nov. 10 and 13, respectively.
More players are arriving, according to Ravena, and help Gilas gain the strength it needs to perform better.
Ravena added that the team will be a more cohesive unit this time around.
“Malaking bagay na kaunti na lang iyung ia-adjust sa team, knowing how to play with each other,” said Ravena.
Thirdy plays for Sanen Neophoenix, while Parks is with the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins.
Dwight Ramos is expected to arrive for the practices before Gilas leaves on November 7.
The last time players of Gilas got together for the fourth window, members of the squad barely had a chance to gel for lack of enough time to do so.
“‘Yun ang nangyari before, dahil walang time,” added Ravena.