Could Gilas Pilipinas have enough luck?
Instead of pray for a miracle, the first wish for the Gilas Pilipinas national basketball team was for a lucky break in the Olympic qualifier the country will be hosting in July.
“Sana makatsamba (Let’s hope they get lucky),” tweeted a fan early yesterday upon the announcement of the five other national teams that will be joining Gilas in the tournament.
The Philippines has drawn France, New Zealand, Canada, Turkey and Senegal in its group.
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National coach Tad Baldwin said its first game should help determine the path the Gilas team would be taking in the last qualifying tournament for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
However, there’s only one clear thing for Gilas now: It will be uphill all the way.
“It’s one hell of a group,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny Pangilinan.
He said Gilas will definitely have its hands full, and that they better get the best players they can lay their hands on.
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At least Gilas, which drew a bye on opening day, will have the chance to watch and scout as France takes on New Zealand on July 5. Gilas plays New Zealand July 6, before facing the awesome France national squad spearheaded by NBA legend Tony Parker the following day.
As host, Philippines will enjoy the so-called homecourt advantage, which coach Baldwin has readily acknowledged.
Baldwin was however quick to add there’s no assurance whatsoever the homecourt edge (by the Philippines) could faze the top-caliber rivals, all seasoned and solid international competitors who know how to deal with all sorts of audience.
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Actually, the more realistic among local fans were not too keen about the homecourt edge the Philippine team should be enjoying.
In fact, even the avid home fans may have to surpass themselves in cheering and goading Gilas.
There was also one suggestion for Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach to be requested to fly home and lead the home cheering in July.
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At least, there is this certainty Fillipino fans, maybe the most dynamic this side of the basketball globe, will be treated to a first class sports theater.
There’s also no doubting the Gilas Pilipinas squad will again make a courageous, full-hearted stand in the supremely trying series. Puso!
Anyway, whichever turn the Gilas Pilipinas adventure takes, the unyielding stand of the tested national team is sure to make all the games memorable.
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The July Olympic qualifier cannot be likened to any visit by NBA groups or contingent.
Luck or no luck, Gilas Pilipinas will never be caught just rolling with the punches.
There promises to be slugout until the final seconds of each Gilas game.
This is the real thing!
