Gilas Pilipinas: New Starting Five, Verification, and Call-Up by Coach Tim Cone and SBP

Gilas Pilipinas, the Philippine national basketball team, has been a powerhouse in Southeast Asian basketball for years. As the team prepares for various international competitions, including the 2023 FIBA World Cup and beyond, the spotlight is on the new roster and the fresh faces that will take the court under the leadership of the country’s most successful coach, Tim Cone. With the new players called up by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and Tim Cone, this article delves deep into the team’s latest formation, what this means for the future of Philippine basketball, and whether Gilas Pilipinas can continue its rise to prominence in the global basketball scene.

1. The Evolution of Gilas Pilipinas: A Brief History

The Philippine national basketball team, or Gilas Pilipinas, has been a consistent competitor in international basketball tournaments. Historically, the team has been known for its competitive spirit, drawing from the deep basketball culture in the Philippines. Over the years, Gilas has enjoyed some success, most notably in the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship, where the Philippines secured a spot in the 2014 FIBA World Cup.

More recently, Gilas Pilipinas has shown promise in regional competitions such as the Southeast Asian Games and FIBA Asia Cup. However, the team faces stiff competition from basketball giants like Australia, Japan, and Iran, who have been consistently dominant in the Asian region. The SBP, recognizing the need to build a stronger and more competitive team, has made it a priority to strengthen the pool of players and improve the depth of talent, thus giving rise to new faces on the roster.

2. Tim Cone’s Leadership: A New Era for Gilas Pilipinas

Tim Cone’s appointment as head coach of Gilas Pilipinas has been one of the most anticipated and strategic decisions made by the SBP in recent years. Cone, a legendary figure in Philippine basketball, is best known for his success in the PBA (Philippine Basketball Association), where he has led multiple teams to championship titles. With a coaching career spanning more than three decades, Cone’s expertise in developing players and his deep understanding of both local and international basketball makes him the ideal candidate to take Gilas Pilipinas to the next level.

Coach Cone’s coaching style is known for its emphasis on discipline, team chemistry, and a balanced offensive and defensive approach. Under his leadership, the Gilas program has undergone significant changes, from roster adjustments to the implementation of more structured plays. His goal is to mold a team that can not only compete in Asia but also make a significant impact on the world stage.

The strategic decisions made by Cone have also included bringing in a mix of veteran players and emerging stars. This blend is aimed at creating a team with both experience and youthful energy. Cone’s ability to scout and integrate new talent has been crucial in ensuring that Gilas remains a formidable team in international tournaments.

3. The New Gilas Starting Five: Verification and Call-Up

One of the most exciting aspects of Gilas Pilipinas’ preparations for international play is the announcement of the new starting five. As part of Coach Cone’s strategy, the starting five will play a critical role in executing the team’s game plans, especially in high-stakes competitions such as the FIBA World Cup and the Olympic qualifiers.

Key Players in the New Lineup

The final roster for the new starting five has been carefully verified by Coach Tim Cone and the SBP. Among the most notable players called up are a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars:

June Mar Fajardo (C/PF): Known as the “Black Shark,” June Mar Fajardo is one of the most dominant centers in Philippine basketball. Standing at 6’10″, Fajardo’s presence in the paint is invaluable for Gilas, both defensively and offensively. His rebounding, shot-blocking, and post moves are crucial for the team’s interior game. As a multiple-time PBA MVP, Fajardo brings experience and leadership to the table, serving as a key anchor for the team.
Scottie Thompson (SG): A rising star in the PBA, Scottie Thompson is known for his hustle, playmaking ability, and defensive prowess. As a guard, he can handle the ball, make key passes, and disrupt opposing offenses with his tenacious defense. His high basketball IQ and leadership qualities make him one of the most important players for the new Gilas lineup.
Kai Sotto (C): One of the most highly touted prospects in Philippine basketball, Kai Sotto is a 7’3″ center with an impressive skill set. Having spent time in various international leagues, including the NBA G League, Sotto is expected to be a key player for Gilas. His size and versatility make him a matchup nightmare, and his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting adds another dimension to the team’s offense.
Jordan Clarkson (SG): As an NBA player with the Utah Jazz, Jordan Clarkson brings unparalleled international experience to Gilas. Known for his scoring ability, Clarkson is one of the most talented Filipino players to have ever played in the NBA. His inclusion in the starting five is expected to elevate the team’s offensive game, with Clarkson being capable of taking over games with his scoring prowess.
Kiefer Ravena (PG): A dynamic point guard, Kiefer Ravena’s inclusion in the starting five solidifies the team’s backcourt. Ravena’s ability to orchestrate the offense, combined with his leadership and playmaking skills, makes him an essential component of the team. His basketball IQ and ability to create opportunities for his teammates will be critical for Gilas’ success.

These players represent the best of Philippine basketball, combining experience, skill, and potential. The team’s success will depend on how well they can mesh and execute Coach Cone’s strategies on both ends of the court.

4. Verification and Call-Up Process by the SBP and Coach Tim Cone

The process of selecting and verifying the new starting five was rigorous, as it had to balance a mix of current form, potential, and fit within the team dynamics. Coach Tim Cone, with his extensive coaching experience, worked closely with the SBP to ensure that the players called up are not only talented but also committed to representing the Philippines at the highest level.

The SBP, under its president Al Panlilio and the leadership of basketball officials, provided full support in organizing training camps and tryouts to assess players’ fitness and readiness. It was important that each player underwent thorough evaluations to determine how well they could adapt to the playing style that Coach Cone envisioned. The fitness levels of the players, especially those competing in international leagues, were also carefully monitored.

Coach Cone emphasized the importance of teamwork and player adaptability. He stressed that the best players would be selected based not just on individual talent but also on their ability to contribute to the collective success of the team. The verification process was designed to ensure that every player could seamlessly integrate into the team’s system and that there would be no egos in the locker room.

5. Can Gilas Win International Competitions?

With a new starting five and a world-class coaching staff, the question on everyone’s mind is: can Gilas Pilipinas win major international competitions? The answer is complex and depends on several factors.

Team Chemistry: One of the most important aspects of any successful basketball team is chemistry. While the individual talent on the Gilas roster is unquestionable, the ability of the team to work together, trust each other, and execute plays is crucial. The players must quickly adapt to Coach Cone’s system and develop a cohesive playing style.

Competition: The global basketball landscape is increasingly competitive, with countries like the USA, Australia, and Greece setting the bar high. While Gilas has the talent to compete, overcoming the top basketball nations will require continued development, exposure to high-level competition, and mental toughness.
Coaching and Strategy: Coach Tim Cone’s leadership will be vital to Gilas’ success. His ability to make in-game adjustments, develop effective game plans, and motivate players will determine how far the team can go in major international tournaments. His extensive coaching experience and understanding of international basketball give Gilas a competitive edge.
Preparation and Experience: Competing in international tournaments requires thorough preparation and experience, especially in high-pressure situations. The team’s exposure to various international leagues, as well as their participation in FIBA events, will be key in ensuring that they are mentally and physically prepared.

6. Conclusion

As the Philippines gears up for future international competitions, the new starting five for Gilas Pilipinas represents hope, ambition, and a commitment to excellence. With the leadership of Coach Tim Cone, a blend of seasoned veterans, and a strong crop of emerging stars, the team is well-positioned to make a significant impact in world basketball.

The road ahead will not be easy, as the competition is fierce, and the pressure is high. However, with the right preparation, teamwork, and support, Gilas Pilipinas can certainly challenge for top honors on the global stage. Whether or not they win will depend on the execution of their plans and how well they adapt to the ever-evolving world of international basketball. But with the talent and passion for the game that runs deep in the Philippines, Gilas can always dream big.