Cawaling quits Smart Gilas program

MANILA—JR Cawaling has decided to leave the Smart Gilas national team to focus on helping Far Eastern University capture the UAAP men’s basketball crown next year.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Noli Eala said the 6-foot-3 wingman has formally informed the SBP of his decision to leave the RP five program, which is geared toward nailing a slot in the 2012 London Olympics.

Eala pointed out that Cawaling’s departure might have something to do with the cager’s lack of exposure at Smart Gilas.

Cawaling was not included in the 12-man roster submitted by the SBP to the Guangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee through the Philippine Olympic Committee.

“He said he wanted to concentrate on his FEU stint next year,” said Eala.

The Tamaraws were swept by the Ateneo Blue Eagles during their best-of-three UAAP championship series.

Cawaling became the fourth player to leave Smart Gilas after Rabeh Al-Hussaini, Rey Guevarra and RJ Jazul, who all jumped to the PBA.

Three players from the PBA—Sol Mercado, Kelly Williams and Asi Taulava—have been given permission to join the Asiad team.