Joining Catriona Gray as local ambassadors named by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) for the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup are members of the 2013-14 Gilas Pilipinas Men’s Team led by LA Tenorio, Jeff Chan, Larry Fonacier, and Gary David who were formally introduced on Thursday morning during a press conference for the one-year countdown to the staging of the tournament.
Back in 2014, it was the Chot Reyes-led squad that catapulted the Philippines back to the World Cup after a 36-year absence.
Their gallant stand against powerhouse teams in the quadrennial meet staged in Spain some eight years ago fueled the passion and support of Pinoy hoop fans everywhere.
Thanks to their historic run, the national team was able to put the Philippines back on the map of global basketball once again.
Though his days of representing the flag are already over, veteran guard LA Tenorio is still relishing the chance to contribute to the national team albeit in a different capacity this time around.
“We’re just very happy and we’re just very honored to be part of this big event a year from now. Sobrang thankful kami for the opportunity,” claimed the former Gilas court general.
“Before when we were playing back in 2014 in the World Cup, I’m sure you guys were cheering for us. And a lot of these guys playing now for our team were cheering for us. Now it’s our time to give back,” Tenorio continued.
“It’s time for us to share also our experience when we were playing back for the country. So we’re looking forward kung anuman ang pwede naming maitulong as ambassadors”
Another key cog of the 2013-14 Gilas squad was Jeff Chan who also shared his excitement in helping to promote the campaign of the national team in the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup.
The 39-year-old sharpshooter is calling for the fans to unite and support Gilas Pilipinas as they compete and go toe-to-toe with the world’s best basketball teams next year.
“Siyempre ‘nung na-invite ako as a local ambassador sobrang happy ako and very excited for this big event kasi as you all know noong 2013 FIBA Asia, lahat ng Filipinos nag all-out support,” he said. “And I’m hoping that next year, lahat tayong Filipinos will become as one and give our support sa players.
“Kami naman as local ambassadors, gusto naming ma-share ‘yung experience during the Seville tournament and hopefully, ma-boost namin sila na ibigay ‘yung best, ‘yung puso sa laro. Again, kung ano man ang outcome, I think lahat tayo magiging proud to everyone.”
Completing the 2013-14 team as local ambassadors are June Mar Fajardo, Jimmy Alapag, Ranidel De Ocampo, Marc Pingris, Gabe Norwood, Jayson Castro, Japeth Aguilar, and Paul Lee.
