Gilas is rejuvenated

MANILA, Philippines — The country got a good glimpse of what’s envisioned as the strongest possible Gilas Pilipinas crew for the 2023 FIBA World Cup when the Jordan Clarkson-led Nationals stamped their class on Saudi Arabia, 84-46, Monday.

The Fil-American NBA star led the way in dismantling the Saudis and showed what his collaboration with the likes of Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, Japeth Aguilar and Scottie Thompson can bring given more time.

Gilas coach Chot Reyes said this souped-up roster in the fourth window games of the Asian Qualifiers is essentially the core group for the actual battle set a year from now.

“There are still some guys that we want to look at but by and large, yeah (this is the core for the World Cup),” Reyes said.

Clarkson, who has logged two matches with the group so far, including the 85-81 loss to Lebanon last Friday, has committed to join the Gilas training at least six months before next year’s global showpiece.

“We’re getting something started here. Support us, support the coaching staff, support everybody. We’re building something special so let’s get it,” the Utah Jazz star told the crowd after the victory over Saudi.

Reyes said the Window 4 campaign helped in integrating not only Clarkson but also new faces like Calvin Oftana, Roosevelt Adams and Jamie Malonzo into the team and allowed the coaches to try out different combos.

“We also had a chance to test the versatility of the team. Sometimes we go big when we have Kai and Japeth together, sometimes we go regular, or sometimes we go small when we don’t have a real power four guy on the floor,” he said.

“So, I think that’s important moving forward that we become adaptable. We are shape-shifters, I like to call it. We can adapt to what the game needs and what the opposition brings to us.”

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is confident the rejuvenated Gilas program is right on course.

“While chemistry takes time to build, it clearly showed in this game on our home court. Gilas played as one team united,” it said.

“This is just the beginning. We still have a year to go. The team is committed to continue training and improving as our country hosts the 2023 World Cup.”