Former Gilas Pilipinas coach Rajko Toroman knows that the odds are not in the national team's favor in the upcoming FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Gilas Pilipinas will face its toughest challenge yet as it competes in the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
For Gilas Pilipinas to advance to the next round, they must win at least one of their two Group A matches against the host and world no. 6 Latvia and world no. 23 Georgia.
[ALSO READ: FIBA OQT: Takeaways for Gilas Pilipinas in Latvia's blowout win vs Georgia]
While Gilas is expected to face a difficult task, many are still hopeful about the national team’s chances. This is especially after the Philippines’ impressive games against world no. 15 Poland and world no. 24 Turkey.
But for former Gilas coach Rajko Toroman, chances remain slim for the Tim Cone-led squad.
"I think that the Gilas showed in their two friendly games that they’re competitive, but it will be very difficult. The chances are not so big, but still, for me, those two games can give you hope that they can do something,” Toroman told reporters after Strong Group Athletics’ media day.
“I don’t think that everybody can expect some miracles from Gilas because the competition is so tough,” he added.
[ALSO READ: Tim Cone gives honest assessment of Gilas Pilipinas ahead of FIBA OQT match against Latvia]
Toroman also pointed out that European teams are heavily favored to secure the final slots in the Olympic Games.
“I think if they can be competitive with European teams, that will be enough. Because for me, it’s easier to qualify for the Olympic Games during the World Cup, like Japan, than in this competition,” said Toroman.
"A lot of European teams didn’t qualify for the Olympic Games. I think the European teams are the favorites to go to the Olympic Games,” he added.
[ALSO READ: For the Olympic dream: Looking back on Gilas Pilipinas' previous OQT stints]
If Gilas somehow make it into the semifinals, they will face either Brazil, Montenegro, or Cameroon.
But the dream for the national team starts against the Kristaps Porzingis-less Latvia later at 12:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 4.
[ALSO READ: FIBA OQT: Gilas Pilipinas schedule, where to watch, and all else you need to know]