Gilas Pilipinas, under coach Tim Cone, started to assemble on Thursday and once again will open its door to fans on Monday (Feb. 19) in a sendoff open practice at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
Under Cone’s leadership and the innovative approach of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, the Gilas Pilipinas squad has been proactively engaging with fans through various social gatherings and fan appreciation days.
This practice of inviting the public to witness their training sessions began in September last year, ahead of their triumphant journey to the Asian Games competition in Hangzhou, China, where they clinched the gold medal.
The team is continuing this tradition as they gear up for their upcoming game against Hong Kong on Feb. 22 in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers 1st Window at the Tsuen Wan Stadium in Taiwan.
After this, Gilas will face Chinese Taipei on Feb. 25 at the PhilSports Arena.
Gilas’ practice sessions commenced on Thursday at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna, with key players such as naturalized player Justin Brownlee, and Japan B Leaguers Kai Sotto and Dwight Ramos actively participating.
Sotto is eagerly anticipating another Gilas tour under Cone’s guidance.
He arrived on Monday afternoon following a successful stint with Hiroshima, concluding his campaign with a stellar 26-point and 11-rebound performance to help his team secure victory over Chiba.
His recent maturity and strong presence on the court prowess is attributed to rigorous strength and conditioning training, under the guidance of renowned Filipino fitness coach Mel Lantin, who accompanied him to Japan for continued training.
Sotto’s last appearance with Gilas was in September during the FIBA World Classification game, where he contributed 12 points and nine rebounds in a triumphant match against China, 96-75.
June Mar Fajardo is set to join Gilas’ practice in the coming days after a brief break in his hometown of Cebu, following his instrumental role in helping San Miguel bag the PBA Commissioner’s Cup crown.