PROFILES: Gilas Pilipinas Final 12 for Fiba Asia Cup 2017

This time, a youth-laden Gilas Pilipinas will stake its claim as the continent’s best in the upcoming Fiba Asia Cup 2017 in Lebanon.

Familiar faces, who have brought pride to the country in the last two editions of the Asian meet, return to guide promising young guns in the hopes of ending the Philippines’ string of bridesmaid finishes.

But it’s a tall order for the Filipinos, who are slotted in a tough group that features powerhouse China.

Nonetheless, these players vow to give it all to keep the Philippines among the best in Asia.

Artwork by Tristan Tamayo/Inquirer Sports