Taulava, Norwood ‘blessed,’ ‘honored’ to be part of Gilas pool

Asi Taulava and Gabe Norwood were both named to the Gilas Pilipinas training pool. Photos by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Invited for another possible tour of duty for Gilas Pilipinas, Rain or Shine swingman Gabe Norwood feels no less than “honored” to have an opportunity to wear the Philippines’ colors.

The 42-year-old Asi Taulava, meanwhile, is “blessed” to get a chance to be part of the national team once again.

Norwood and Taulava both expressed their gratitude on social media after the 16-man pool for the 2015 Fiba Asia Championships buildup was released by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas on Monday.

READ: Fajardo headlines Baldwin’s PBA wishlist for Gilas pool

The 6-foot-5 Norwood has been Gilas’ best perimeter defender and the most versatile player on the defensive end with his ability to defend multiple positions.

Taulava, still a force to reckon with at his age, is a veteran national team campaigner who could provide toughness and added experience the squad needs.

Norwood is one of seven Gilas mainstays who got the invitation along with Talk ‘N Text’s Jayson Castro and Ranidel de Ocampo, Barangay Ginebra’s LA Tenorio, San Miguel Beer’s June Mar Fajardo, Star’s Marc Pingris and Meralco’s Gary David. CFC