It was unusual to see Gabe Norwood — clad in a black coat, white long sleeves underneath, and a pair of black slim-fit slacks — come in late for Gilas Pilipinas practice on Monday at the Meralco Gym. But he had a valid reason for his attire and his tardiness.
“I got a close friend who had a wedding anniversary. I had to make sure I was there for the surprise,” he explained.
What Gilas’ captain saw inside the facility was unusual, too. Gilas’ pool for the second window of the FIBA World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers consists of only 15 players, but the number of players on the court was around 30.
Norwood admittedly did not know that the young 23 for 2023 cadets were also in attendance Monday night.
“I didn’t know the young guys were gonna be in, so I walked in late, I looked over and there was about 30 people in here,” a proud Norwood shared.
The veteran internationalist saw yet another generation of Gilas. And in that moment, the 32-year-old Filipino-American couldn’t help but look back on how the program has evolved, from its inception in 2007 up to now.
“It’s awesome to know that I’ve been a part of the program for so long and really see it grow and see where it’s going. It’s pretty awesome,” said Norwood, who has been with the Nationals since 2007 and has won two FIBA Asia silver medals.
Norwood, along with his fellow Gilas veterans, was able to see those young guns play as head coach Chot Reyes made them participate. Based on what he saw, the 10-year pro was very satisfied.
“The biggest thing for me was when we actually put in the offense, it seems like everybody picked it up pretty quick,” he shared. “Everybody seemed to come out and picked it up quick, and guys weren’t afraid to ask questions and learn.
“So I mean, if you’re willing to learn at this point, you’re in good shape.”
It has been said many times that the future of Philippine basketball is bright with the fresh talent Gilas has right now. And for Norwood, he himself is excited for how the young ones will fare against the world’s finest come the 2023 Worlds.
“I’ll be cheering from the stands, cheering my head off,” assured Norwood, who will be 38 by then.
“But I’m really excited for the group, who knows who’s gonna be in, playing here in Manila, so it should be an exciting time.”
