Gilas Pilipinas. Photo from SBP
MANILA, Philippines-After back-to-back losses to Estonia and Finland, Gilas Pilipinas finally took its first win after a comeback victory over Ukraine’s Under-20 team early Sunday.
Rhenz Abando starred for Gilas in the 70-61 win as he drew praise from coach Chot Reyes.
“His upside is tremendous,” Reyes said of Abando, who finished with 14 points, as per One Sports.
Gilas Pilipinas’ Rhenz Abando. FIBA PHOTO
Abando, however, still has a lot to learn especially on the defensive end where his length and athleticism will be put to good use.
“He only needs to be able to defend the way that we want him to defend and to understand our offense as well,” Reyes said.
Despite the win, Reyes said Gilas’ performance showed the team is still far from where it needs to be come the Fiba World Cup in August.
“To be very honest, although we won this game, I still think there were a lot of defensive lapses,” Reyes said.
“This is a game we won but it still left a lot to be desired.”
Gilas takes on the same Ukraine side anew later tonight.