Chua’s magic is back

It took over a year before PBA vice chairman Alfrancis Chua agreed to reprise his role as Gilas team manager and with the added responsibility as Gilas project director, he’s ready to do his share in bringing the country’s national basketball program to new heights.

Chua was Gilas team manager when the Philippines won the gold medal at the Asian Games in Hangzhou in October last year, ending a wait dating back to 1962. “I was away for 14 days and nagpatong-patong ang trabaho sa San Miguel, kaya ‘di na ako nakabalik,” he said. “It would be unfair to Gilas if I continued half-heartedly. But I never stopped supporting Gilas, joining meetings, sharing inputs behind the scenes. Then coach Tim (Cone), my tokayo (SBP president Al Panlilio) and PBA chairman Ricky (Vargas) continued to ask if I could return and with my boss RSA’s (San Miguel Corp. CEO/chairman Ramon S. Ang) blessing, I accepted.”

Chua’s magic touch was evident in Gilas’ first-ever win over New Zealand at the second FIBA Asia Cup qualifying window at the MOA Arena last Thursday. “Buena mano,” he said. “Coach Tim is in charge of Xs and Os. I take care of the guys. If they’re happy, they play well.  I’m here for them, nilalapitan ko sila. I put a lot of importance in personal relationships. In any way, I can help, in terms of advice or whatever, with their families, wives, girlfriends. With Ginebra, kilala ko na silang lahat. With Gilas, I’m still getting to know everyone, nililigawan ko sila, to understand where they’re coming from, what their attitudes and apprehensions are.”

Chua’s impact was evident in the lockerroom. At halftime of the New Zealand game, Chua spoke to Dwight Ramos and CJ Perez. “Parang ilang sila tumira and it’s understandable,” he said. “It’s like nakikikain sila sa ibang bahay kasi they’re used to playing for their mother teams. I told Dwight take the shot, same with CJ, don’t hesitate if you’re open. I told the guys New Zealand has made 10 threes and the score is tied so we’re good. It’s just one game and there’s no tomorrow. Sayang ang opportunity if we let it slip away.”

Chua said he’s talked to Cone about expanding the Gilas pool for the next window in February, perhaps adding one or two players. Regarding Justin Brownlee, Chua said he’ll take a two or three-week rest before playing for Ginebra in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup starting Nov. 27. Ginebra may bring in an interim import. Chua said he’ll stay with Gilas “hanggang gusto nila ako.” That could be a long, long time.