MANILA—Smart Gilas and coach Rajko Toroman will have their hands full as the 22nd Fiba Asia Champions Cup begins on May 28 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
This, despite Toroman’s decision during the FACC draw to join the “easier” Group A to avoid an early encounter with back-to-back tournament champion Iran, Qatar and Syria in Group B.
The Nationals nonetheless face formidable odds in Group A as they are set to battle the Al-Ittihad Jeddah of Saudi Arabia, which recently acquired former Smart Gilas import CJ Giles, on opening day.
The Nationals will then play Westsports KL Dragons on May 29, Iraq’s Duhok Sports Club on May 31, and Jordan’s ASU Sports on June 1.
Toroman had made it clear as early as four weeks ago that the Philippines has to finish on top of its group to avoid an early quarterfinal collision with Group B’s top three teams.
That may be easier said than done. The Dragons have signed up Americans Marcus Morrison and 6-10 Nakiea Miller and will be coached by Ariel Vanguardia, who also tabbed Filipino players.