Expressions of grief, shock: What they say about the Gilas ‘snub’

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/AUGUST DELA CRUZ

Two PBA coaches—one active, the other multititled—have expressed dismay after San Miguel Corp. players begged off from joining the Gilas Pilipinas pool.

“Look, they (San Miguel group) have won six of the last seven PBA championships, which shows that they really have some of the best players in the country,” said the active coach who has worked for neither San Miguel nor PLDT-backed teams in the pro league.

“Certainly, they have people (players) the national team can use, they have some of the most dominant players in the country,” he added, speaking on condition that he not be named due to the sensitivity of the issue.

Marc Pingris of Star, who was originally included in the 16-man pool released by the PBA for Gilas, backed out on Saturday.

“I saw reports of that (Pingris goodbye) in the papers and on the Internet, and what he said says a lot of the current situation in the PBA,” said the retired coach, who won titles with several teams.

The retired coach noted Pingris’ explanation to reporters about “things that are out of my control.”

“It’s a pity for the nation because our (PBA) teams cannot get together,” he said, also aware of the Paul Lee-angle with Rain or Shine. “It’s a sad day for Philippine basketball.”

The retired coach said that politics is playing a huge part in what is happening.

“Due recognition to the other team owners is not given (after tournaments),” he said. “Especially after the success of Gilas in [the Fiba Asia] Manila and in [the World Cup]  in Spain.