The Gilas headmaster is more equipped heading into the FIBA World Cup this time around.
Taking part in the 2023 edition of the FIBA World Cup marks two milestones for the Philippines. One, it's the third straight time that the country has appeared in the international tournament. Prior to this streak, the country went through 36 long years of absence. Two, the country will be hosting the global hoops summit for the first time ever.
Head coach Chot Reyes also has his own milestone, as he is on his second stint as Gilas' chief tactician in FIBA's flagship event. Heading into his role reprisal, Reyes seems more assured of himself and his squad.
“It’s a kind of situation where ‘I’ve been here before’, I kind of know what to expect,” Reyes told the media after the FIBA World Cup Draw on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Coach Chot was the man in command when the Philippine contingent had a spirited campaign in the FIBA World Cup in Spain nine years ago. The team won against Senegal, and dropped three close matches to powerhouses Croatia, Argentina, and Puerto Rico.
With that in his back pocket, Reyes must have a firm grasp on the task at hand, which means he also knows what his wards must do to be able to compete.
"The game is always evolving. Our competition is always getting better. So, it is incumbent upon us to match that,” the decorated strategist told reporters.
Coming into the FIBA World Cup way more prepared and way more equipped than they did in 2014 is Gilas' goal. It’s a must for the host team to accomplish that, according to Coach Chot. He certainly hopes, from this moment moving forward, the team can work towards hitting that target.
“If we come in with the game that we brought in 2014, it’s not going to be enough. We have to be much, much better. I hope from now ‘til then, we can find a way to really be a much better team.”
The FIBA World Cup begins on August 25. The Philippines is in Group A with Angola, Dominican Republic, and Italy.