They are now back in the Philippines. But job’s not done.
It’s not only plastic bottles Gilas Pilipinas picked up in their 16-day European training camp. There were a lot of takeaways for the team preparing for the FIBA World Cup in Manila this August.
When asked about his, Rhenz Abando, who is relatively used to playing overseas now after one season with KBL champions Anyang KGC, said it’s the level of physicality.
“‘Yung mga natutunan ko dito sa Europe trip kasi sobrang iba ‘yung level ng basketball nila. Sobrang physical,” Abando told News5’s Martie Bautista as Gilas had a series of tune-up games from Estonia to Lithuania.
Thirdy Ravena had a different answer, saying the Filipino dribblers achieved the level of fitness they needed to compete in the conclave among the best basketball countries, which will be co-hosted by Japan and Indonesia.
“We were always tired nung sa Inspire [camp in Laguna]. We were not in good shape. But after this camp, sobrang mas na-condition kami. I can say we are definitely in shape with our conditioning,” he said.
The goals they set out to achieve in this trip, safe to say, were fulfilled, including fostering camaraderie.
“In terms of difference, parang ang laking bagay na nagsama-sama pa rin kami. Nakumpleto kami,” Kiefer Ravena said.
“Unfortunately, Scottie [Thompson] got hurt pero at the end of the day, we were able to maximize the trip. We were able to make the most out of the experience of playing against European teams and so far so good.”
Gilas wrapped up their European tour with a 125-102 win against the Lithuanian selection. But now that they are back in the Philippines, the Filipinos are confronted with the uncertainty surrounding the health of Thompson and Dwight Ramos.
Reyes said he now wants to focus on the team’s health, first by getting the official medical prognosis of Thompson’s injury and MRI for Ramos’ knee.
The older Ravena seems positive about their recovery, though.
“They’re doing well. Recovering. And I think now that they’re back home, especially si Scottie—back with his family. I think that’s gonna do a lot of help with his recovery mentally, more than physically,” he said.
“And I think Dwight’s getting ready for practice when we get back right away. So they’re in good health, I think that’s the most important thing for us.”
(With reports from Martie Bautista, News5)
(GM)