The 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup is fast-approaching. Rabid fans across the land are anxious, excited, and curious about the composition of the Gilas team that will compete in August of 2023.
With that, let’s give in to the pressure and tackle five burning questions ahead of the tourney.
Question 1: Will Jordan Clarkson play?
At this point, we see no reason why JC won't suit up for Team Philippines in the 2023 FIBA Worlds. He remains as the best and most accomplished option we have for a naturalized player.
Since the Basketball World Cup will take place from August 25 to September 10, 2023, more than a month before the new NBA season begins, the 2021 NBA Sixth Man of the Year should have a free schedule, which he would likely fill up with a trip to the Philippines to play with his Gilas brothers.
But, if somehow things go haywire (knock on wood), speeding up Justin Brownlee's naturalization might be a good backup plan.
Question 2: Should Chot Reyes coach Gilas in 2023?
Unless something monumentally goes wrong like a Gilas loss to a friendly match against Team Cambodia, Coach Chot Reyes will and should remain as the Gilas head coach for the 2023 Basketball World Cup. The fans have been clamoring for “continuity” in the Gilas program and “continuity” they will get should the 9-time PBA champion tactician stay in command.
He picked up the slack and the flack when Tab Baldwin left while the SBP stuck to their guns despite the early struggles. Now with the right players in, Team Philippines seems to be on the right track under Coach Chot’s watch. Definitely he deserves a shot at finishing the job.
Question 3: Is Scottie Thompson a lock to be Gilas’ main PG?
Scottie Thompson’s unique skill set provides exactly the things that Gilas sorely missed in the last few years. Rebounding, defensive tenacity and the uncanny ability to come up with 50-50 balls are some of the goodies that the 2021 PBA MVP brings to the party, all of which can be game-changers especially in tight matches.
Don’t start with the “he’s not tall enough and he’s not a scorer” argument. The man outrebounds gigantic imports in the PBA. And when it comes to making shots, he can hit even the most crucial ones so don’t @ us. Scottie Thompson should be Gilas’ main point guard in 2023.
Question 4: How good will Kai Sotto be by 2023?
We have no illusions of Kai hooping like a mixture of KD and Giannis when he realizes his potential come 2023. We do expect our Kaiju to be a bit stronger, a better rebounder, and a more agile defender for the quadrennial meet.
For sure he can hit an open three and he’ll be ready to slam it home once he gets the rock around the rim. It’s just a matter of fine tuning some of the loose bolts in his armor. Once that happens, he’ll be a force to reckon with by any measure.
Question 5: How far can Gilas go in the 2023 FIBA Worlds?
We believe that Gilas Pilipinas will have its best showing at the Worlds since the 1974 playing of the tournament in Puerto Rico.That time Team Philippines came up with two victories, one over Australia and the other was against Central African Republic. It’s going to be tough but given the variables, which includes a talented roster and the all out support of the host country, the home team might just pull it off.
Looking at the bigger picture, an inspiring performance from Gilas in all of their games is already a successful stint. Win or lose, once they make us proud to shout PUSO again, then consider it as a triumphant campaign.