Gilas Pilipinas gets fans' nod after win over Iran

Gilas newcomer AJ Edu and high-flying Rhenz Abando got the nod of fans following the national team's 76-65 win over Iran to open their series of tune-up games in the Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament in China.

Supporters believe the two promising pool members fit the ideal roster of Gilas with their length and athleticism.

sana talaga regular na si edu sa gilas. haha. abando too.
and japeth looks healthy. <3 tigas ni junmar. haha.

— OfficialBrgyGinebra (@OfficialGinebra) August 3, 2023

AJ Edu and Rhenz Abando really fit the ideal Gilas roster.
We need them in the final 12 with Clarkson, Thompson, Ramos, Fajardo, Aguilar, Sotto, Malonzo and add guards/forwards that are both good at shooting and handling the ball #Gilas #FIBAWC

— 𝙲𝚢𝚛𝚒𝚕 (@SeCyT_mE) August 3, 2023

Gilas fans have previously lobbied for 2021 NCAA MVP and reigning KBL Slam Dunk Contest champion to be a big part of the national team's rotation.

lakas ni abando ngayon

— 😶 (@slwnmls) August 3, 2023

I LIKE WHAT ABANDO BROUGHTS TO THIS TEAM!! GO GILAS GL

— bgc (@bryncntn) August 3, 2023

As for Edu, the 23-year-old's defensive performance received positive feedback.

Great to see AJ Edu in action. Galing dumepensa! https://t.co/xufei8IQQL

— polisay (@polisay3) August 3, 2023

AJ Edu is that guy! can legitimately guard both inside and out

— Ice🇵🇭 (@icesoball) August 3, 2023

Abando, Edu and the rest of Gilas Pilipinas will face Senegal later tonight at 8 p.m. The game will be shown live on One Sports.