Heading cut from Gilas lineup vs South Korea due to hip issue

Gilas Pilipinas’ Jordan Heading. SBP/FIBA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — A hip injury prevented Jordan Heading from playing for Gilas Pilipinas against South Korea on Wednesday in the 2021 Fiba Asia Cup qualifiers in Clark, Pampanga.

The Fil-Australian guard was among the last cuts as Gilas named its 12-man pool on Tuesday.

“There is a minor issue with his hip that we need to monitor and rest but the plan is utilize him against Indonesia,” said Ryan Gregorio, special assistant to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president.

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Heading would’ve come in handy against South Korea with Gilas also missing other guards in Matt Nieto and Rey Suerte due to injuries.

The 6-foot-2 Heading, though, is expected to suit up on Friday against Indonesia.

Apart from his ability, the 25-year-old Heading is also being relied on for his leadership having played in the United States, Australia and in the Asean Basketball League (ABL).

“In terms of my experience with the game and having played in the States and Australia and nationally with the Philippines, it’s just sort of trying to bring on my experiences together and help these young guys help keep their heads from stressful situations,” he said. “It’s just really trying to bring a cohesive atmosphere and a positive attitude throughout the whole game in all of our training.”