Gilas Pilipinas tapped Ginebra guards RJ Abarrientos and Ralph Cu as practice players in their two-day training camp in Laguna, while giving much-needed rest to Justin Brownlee and Troy Rosario.
No rest for the weary, especially for RJ Abarrientos and Ralph Cu.
The Ginebra guards have been called up to serve as practice players in Gilas Pilipinas’ training camp at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna that started today, Tuesday, February 11.
Both Abarrientos and Cu joined the Gilas build-up in place of Troy Rosario and Justin Brownlee, who are given time to rest following the Gin Kings’ hard-fought quarterfinal series win over rivals Meralco Bolts in the ongoing Commissioner’s Cup playoffs.
Rosario is already considered doubtful for the Doha tournament due to a knee issue.
However, the two will not be flying with the team for its upcoming Doha training camp that will see Gilas also participate in a mini tournament against Qatar, Lebanon, and Egypt.
[ALSO READ: What you need to know when Gilas plays in Doha ahead of FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers]
Even current Gilas Men assistant coach and FEU Tamaraws head tactician Sean Chambers shared a photo together with Abarrientos.
B.League Pinoy imports Dwight Ramos and AJ Edu were also present on the first day of practice alongside national team mainstays Scottie Thompson, Calvin Oftana, and Jamie Malonzo.
[ALSO READ: Doha games a chance to integrate Jamie Malonzo, AJ Edu with Gilas, says Tim Cone]
Gilas Men aim to sweep the final window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers when they battle Taiwan on February 20, followed by New Zealand on February 23 both on the road.
Already assured of a place to the 2025 quadrennial event in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia this August, the Philippines is on top of Group B behind a immaculate 4-0 record.