Change in Fiba calendar prompts return to Gilas cadet program

Gilas Pilipinas cadets. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

There’s a pressing need to put the Gilas cadet program into the limelight after the International Basketball Federation or Fiba altered the schedule and format of its tournaments.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Sonny Barrios said the new Fiba timeline would run in conflict with the schedule of the Philippine Basketball Association, prompting them to try the crop of collegiate stars that will comprise the cadet roster.

“The Gilas cadet program is the continuation of the Gilas program. It’s all about maintaining a competitive national team,’’ said Barrios during the Philippine Sportswriters Association forum Tuesday at Shakey’s Malate.

“The idea is to form a permanent national team dedicated for international competitions. It’s borne out of necessity because of Fiba’s new calendar.’’

Barrios said it would be difficult to disrupt the games of the PBA after the Fiba calendared its tournaments four times a year.

The SBP has been finalizing the 14-man cadet lineup that will play in the home-and-away qualifier next year for the 2019 Fiba World Cup.

According to sources, among those being considered are Kiefer Ravena, Ray Parks Jr., Kevin Ferrer, Mike Tolomia, Von Pessumal, Jiovani Jalalon, Mac Belo and Roger Pogoy.

Should the plan push through, these players will have to forgo the PBA Rookie Draft this year and sign up with the national team on a long-term basis.

Barrios said in the weekly forum sponsored by Accel, San Miguel Corporation and Pagcor that even the United States and European countries would have to adjust with the Fiba format.

The former PBA commissioner added they’re planning to sit down with the PBA and discuss the changes in the Fiba calendar.

“Informally, commissioner Chito Narvasa and I agreed to meet. I don’t know exactly when, but we have to find a common free time,’’ said Barrios.

“I understand the PBA. It’s not easy to disrupt the calendar of the league, not just for the participation but also for the training,’’ he added.

Barrios pointed out the pro league has to give up five weeks minimum, four times a year, if the PBA accommodates the Fiba format.