As he has arrived in the Philippines earlier than expected, Andray Blatche expressed excitement over his return to SMART Gilas Pilipinas for the second window of the 2019 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in less than two weeks.
The former NBA pro, whom Gilas head coach Chot Reyes and team officials had expected to be in the country sometime around February 12 or 13, arrived this past Friday after securing his release from his CBA team Xinjiang Flying Tigers.
“[I’m] Super excited. I can’t wait for tomorrow,” said the 31-year-old naturalized Filipino.
“I’m going to have dinner with coach Chot tonight and after that, get me a good rest for tomorrow’s practice.”
Finding himself with free time, the 31-year-old surprisingly watched the PBA at SMART Araneta Coliseum. He visibly enjoyed watching the NLEX Road Warriors-Alaska Aces tiff, as he got to see Gilas teammates Calvin Abueva, Kiefer Ravena, Kevin Alas, Carl Cruz, and Asi Taulava on the court.
“It’s good to watch Kevin, Asi, and Kiefer and watch them play again. Kiefer’s gonna be something special,” he said.
Aside from developing chemistry, one of the reasons why he decided to arrive in the country early was to get himself accustomed to the basketball. The Chinese League uses another brand, while FIBA tournaments use Molten ones.
“I just try to come here, get used to the ball, that’s it,” said Blatche, who averaged just 9.5 points during the first window.
“It’s a different ball so I try to shoot with that ball again.”
With him in tow, Gilas’ preparations are set to improve. And even if they will be facing the 10th-ranked team in the world in Australia, Blatche is full of optimism that the Nationals have a chance to shock the world once more.
“We have to work hard as a team, use our strengths, our quickness, our outside shooting. I feel we have a good chance.”
