Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes stands firm on his decision not to field in any replacement for injured center June Mar Fajardo in the 2017 FIBA Asia Cup, which will raise its curtains next week, August 8, in Beirut, Lebanon.
“Nope. Bakit pa?” said the 54-year-old mentor after Gilas’ last practice before flying to Lebanon, Saturday morning at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center in Katipunan, Quezon City.
“If he can’t play, then we go with eleven.”
The 6-foot-10 San Miguel Beermen star was diagnosed with a partial tear in his right calf muscle last Friday, making him unavailable for the Asia Cup for the second straight time.
On the other hand, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas decided not to send possible replacements Ed Daquioag and Fonzo Gotladera to Lebanon. The replacement fee would have ranged from $3,500 to $7,000, according to Gilas team manager Butch Antonio.
Fajardo said that he is still willing to suit up for Gilas if he can. But for Reyes, the team has braced itself for the worst case scenario that is the three-time Most Valuable Player’s absence in the continental meet.
“If he can play, then that’s a bonus,” said the multi-titled coach. “But we’re preparing as if he can’t, because it’s more difficult yung labas-pasok. ‘Di namin alam. So we’re preparing as if he’s not going to be there.
“I think that’s the best way to handle this.”
