Gilas Pilipinas energized despite 2nd practice in 12 hours

Gilas Pilipinas coach Yeng Guiao pleased with team’s energy today despite training for the second time in 12 hours. | @MarkGiongcoINQ pic.twitter.com/sRdEdoINNK

— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) August 17, 2019

MANILA, Philippines—Gilas Pilipinas on Saturday trained for the second time in just a span of 12 hours but there was hardly any hint of fatigue.

What was obvious, however, was enthusiasm, liveliness and good basketball that had head coach Yeng Guiao beaming from ear to ear.

“We had a good practice today. Actually, I thought they might still be tired today because we practiced last night and this is our second practice in the last 12 hours,” Guiao said.

“The energy is good despite having practice last night. We had a good practice last night also. To me, it’s a sign that they’re getting into better shape. They’re also having fun, they’re enjoying practice which is also very good for the team.”

Gilas takes a breather on Sunday before resuming practice on Monday just in time for the return of mainstays June Mar Fajardo, Troy Rosario and Roger Pogoy.

The three just finished playing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals for their respective mother clubs with Fajardo’s San Miguel Beer winning the title in six games.

Despite the positives, Guiao said the team can’t afford to settle especially with the Fiba World Cup just around the corner.

“We’re able to run our sets, our offense, our defense a little bit more smoothly but, of course, we still want some improvement.”