After bowing out of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) evaluates the future of Gilas Pilipinas.
The evaluation includes the future of naturalized player Andray Blatche, who led Gilas in scoring (25.5 points) and rebounding (7.5) in the two games he played in the qualifiers.
In the two games he played, Blatche scored 21 and 30 points against France and New Zealand, respectively. Both games were lost.
SBP vice president Al Panlilio refused to point fingers on Blatche for the team's failed attempt to enter in the Rio Olympics.
"I don’t think he’s the very reason why we lost," said Panlilio. "As I’ve said, this is a journey for us. Part of the reason we lost is we didn’t get enough training at a very high level. I think the Filipino fans, while it’s a treat to all of them seeing these world class basketball players, they also saw how hard it is to compete at this level."
The SBP official however, said the evaluation to be done is a natural process for the country’s national federation after every major international competition where the national team saw action.
"We haven’t sat down, but will meet soon with other SBP officials," said Panlilio.
Andray Blatche's contract is per tournament, and the early exit of Gilas also signals the end of his duty.
Panlilio stressed that Blatche remains an option, though the big man has set his sights on an NBA Summer League.
"When he left shortly after we lost, he said he’ll try it out in the NBA Summer league. He’s an NBA caliber player. So we’ll assess everything. Andray will always be an option," said Panlilio.
Source: SPIN
Image: Philippine Daily Inquirer
Share It To Your Friends!
Loading...
