MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas head coach Yeng Guiao isn't too concerned with President Duterte's comments on the team's chances in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
In an interview with ESPN 5, Guiao said that they are taking Duterte's remarks in a positive light.
Gilas Pilipinas head coach Yeng Guiao isn’t bothered by President Duterte’s comments about the team’s chances in the upcoming #FIBAWC.
Guaio adds the team sees the comments as a challenge to perform well in the tournament. | @paodelrosario #LabanPilipinas#PilipinasGotGame pic.twitter.com/hxLunyDCvK— ESPN5 (@Sports5PH) August 7, 2019
"It doesn't really bother us. I guess you just have to take that from a positive point of view," Guiao said.
"We should just be able to keep believing in ourselves," he added.
Duterte on Tuesday said that the Filipino cagers don’t stand a chance against Italy.
Gilas faces the Italians in their first game of the tournament on August 31 in China.
The President even said it would be better to bet on the Chinese instead of the Filipino ballers.
"We look at it as a challenge... whatever happens naman we're here to represent the Philippines," Guiao said.
"Whether we win or we lose, it's really the way you carry yourself, the way you put out a good performance," he added.
The mentor also said not to count out any possibilities come the tournament.
"Who knows what will happen?" He said.
Gilas Pilipinas is in Spain for the World Cup preparations and are set to return to the country on August 13.