The last time he played for the national team was in 2019.
A good chunk of Filipino fans has been clamoring for Terrence Romeo’s return to Gilas Pilipinas. Romeo has always been a potent scoring weapon for the national team, averaging 12 points in FIBA events. It’s not hard to recognize how he could be of help to the country’s cause.
Last month, the people almost got their wish as the 31-year-old shot-maker was tapped by Tim Cone to join Gilas Pilipinas in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. But it wasn’t meant to be as a strange ruling about the lineup list ultimately barred Romeo, along with Calvin Abueva, Mo Tautuaa, and Jason Perkins from competing.
On Tuesday during the PBA Media Day, Romeo discussed his aborted stint with the national squad, putting into perspective what many perceived to be a frustrating development.
“Disappointment lang na hindi ako nakapaglaro pero hanggang dun lang ‘yun kasi alam ko naman na may mga bagay-bagay na ‘pag hindi time na ‘to mangyayari, sa ibang time pa puwede mangyari,” the three-time PBA scoring champion said. “Ang importante lang is ready ka when the day comes."
Displaying maturity from a seasoned veteran, the 2019 Commissioner’s Cup Finals MVP explained how he maintained a positive attitude throughout the whole ordeal.
“Siyempre nalungkot, comeback sana namin ni Calvin, and ‘yung mga ibang naalis (sa Gilas) pero nilagay ko sa mind ko na hindi pa naman ‘dun natatapos ‘yun, kumbaga naglalaro pa rin kami” said Romeo.
While he missed out on his first gold medal with Gilas Pilipinas, the San Miguel Beermen star, who also gave rookie teammate Kyt Jimenez high praise, isn't crying over spilled milk.
"'Yung panghihinayang lagi lang nandoon pero ako, kaming apat (na naalis), masaya kami na nag-gold tayo. Proud kami sa teammates namin, as in sama-sama kaming nag-sacrifice, sama-sama kaming nag-practice, sobrang proud kami sa kanila," Romeo beamed.
Romeo will now have to shift his focus on helping San Miguel in the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup, which is set to open the league's 48th season this November 5.
(PM)