A day off is a good thing for a team. It helps bodies recover from the stress of training and tune-ups. More importantly, it helps players get to know each other better.
Just ask the Gilas Pilipinas Women, who used Day 3 of their Melbourne camp to flex their casual wear ahead of the FIBA Women's Asia Cup.
In a "Saan galing ang damit mo?" video, the Philippine women's national basketball team showed off where they got their drip.
Jack Animam is totally flexing. But hey, it's not every day that a Filipina baller gets to represent a global sports apparel brand.
The best presentation has to be from Chack Cabinbin, "Bigay ng misis, bigay ng misis, nakaw, bigay, Shopee!"
Check out this TikTok video from Animam. Who has the best get-up?
The squad went on to visit the Philippine consulate and get a taste of Filipino food in Melbourne. And of course, do TikTok dances.
While some players get flak from doing maybe "too much TikTok", Animam argues it's actually good for the team. For one thing, working on choreography vastly improves communication, timing, coordination, and chemistry—especially since this is their first time playing with Duke Blue Devils' Vanessa de Jesus.
"We're really working on our chemistry, especially off the court. I think that's one of the most important things," Animam told The Philippine Times in Australia. "It can easily translate to our game on the court."
De Jesus, still fighting jet lag from traveling over 20 hours, notes the chemistry would work wonders for Gilas.
"We got really smart players. We know our strengths and weaknesses," she told The Philippine Times.
The Gilas Pilipinas Women will be led by Animam, along with veterans Janine Pontejos and Afril Bernardino.
Coach Pat Aquino's program, banking on continuity and exposure over several tournaments, will also bank on reliable shooters in Khate Castillo, Camille Clarin, Ella Fajardo, Cabinbin, Angelica Surada, and Mikka Cacho.
Joining the squad are De Jesus, Jhazmin Joson, and Fil-Am Nation's Louna Ozar.
The Philippines will take on Australia, Japan, and Chinese Taipei in Group B. The top team will earn a semifinal berth, while the second-best and third-best squads will compete in a crossover qualification game against the nations in Group A.
The FIBA Women's Asia Cup will begin on June 26 and will air live on One Sports and One Sports+.