Nat’l team vet Norwood savoring every moment playing for PH
Gabe Norwood. Photo from Fiba.com
Gabe Norwood admits that it feels like it was only yesterday when he first suited up for the Philippine national team.
“It’s humbling, very humbling,” Norwood said, looking back to the day he first represented the country.
“I can’t believe it’s been 10 years right? It’s just an honor to be a part of this team.”
From being the greenhorn back in 2007, Norwood is now the elder statesman for Gilas Pilipinas as he bore witness to the highest of highs and lowest of lows.
Still, the Rain or Shine swingman shared there’s no rush quite like representing the country in the international stage.
And in his latest stint for Gilas, the 32-year-old Norwood showed why he’s still a vital piece, averaging 7.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in victories over Japan and Chinese Taipei in the 2019 Fiba World Cup Asian qualifiers
His efforts did not go unnoticed as one of Gilas’ chief backers acknowledged his tireless efforts.
Bounty Agro Ventures Inc. president Ronald Mascariñas awarded Norwood with the Chooks-to-Go Loyalty Award moments after Gilas’ 90-83 win against Chinese Taipei on Monday in a thanksgiving dinner at Barrio Fiesta in Ali Mall.
Allein Maliksi was also feted with the Sportsmanship Award for his commitment to the national team through the first leg of the Asian qualifiers.
Surprised with the honor bestowed on him, Norwood said that he’s just treasuring every chance he gets to play for flag and country.
“Time is undefeated so I’m just here, trying to enjoy every moment,” he said.
Wrapping up Gilas’ first pair of games in the Asian qualifiers, Norwood was beaming with pride as he feels that this current crop of national team campaigners have a great chance in helping the team reach their quest of earning a ticket to the 2019 Fiba World Cup in China.
“The young guys are awesome. They bring a lot of energy to this team,” he beamed. “They are not just the future of Gilas but also the future of Philippine basketball.”
