Gilas coach Tim Cone says Scottie Thompson presence ‘irreplaceable’

Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone during a tune-up game against Taiwan Mustangs ahead of the Fiba OQT. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone admitted that he is sorely missing the services of his trust guard Scottie Thompson as the team embarks on their Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament quest.

Thompson was ruled out of the Gilas roster for the OQT due to his recurring back problems

“I do really, really miss Scottie,” said Cone after Gilas’ 74-64 win over the visiting Taiwan Mustangs in a tune-up game.

READ: Gilas loses Scottie to old injury, will fly with only 11 men to Latvia

“You all know how much I rely on Scottie. He’s such an infectious player, he affects the guys around him. He does all the things that don’t show up on the scoreboard.”

In a report by the Inquirer a few days back, team manager Richard Del Rosario said that Thompson was bothered by a slipped disc in his back.

Gilas Pilipinas guard Scottie Thompson. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

But certainly seemed like Gilas is finding ways to combat Thompson’s absence as ball movement proved key in their win over Taiwan.

Justin Brownlee spearheaded the Philippines in assists with 15 to his name to go along with 12 points.

READ: Gilas kicks off OQT preparations with much-needed difficulty

Despite the showing of the Ginebra import, Cone still said that they haven’t replaced Thompson’s presence on the hardwood.

That, according to the veteran tactician, is simply impossible.

“It’s not that we can’t find him a replacement, it’s just that we miss him. Anybody we get is not going to replace Scottie. That’s just a fact of life.”