Baser Amer is elated to have been included in the 12-man team that will face the visiting Australia Boomers in the third window of the FIBA World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers, Monday night at the Philippine Arena.
Monday night will mark the debut of the six-foot guard with the Gilas’ seniors squad. Previously, Amer’s national team gigs were only in the Southeast Asian Games, where he has already collected two gold medals.
“Masaya of course kasi dream ko ito eh. Gagawin ko lang yung best ko tomorrow,” said Amer on the eve of their rematch with the Boomers.
The proud son of Davao knows that he has to deliver in any and all ways he can. So the moment that he was informed of his inclusion, Amer immediately set his sights on the Aussies by watching their game versus Japan.
The Boomers lost to the Japanese last Friday, 78-79, marking their very first loss since the 2016 Rio Olympics, where they bowed to Pau Gasol and world power Spain in the bronze medal match despite having NBA players on their roster.
“Nung sinabihan ako, nag-focus na ako,” shared the former San Beda Red Lion.
“Yun nga, nung nasa kuwarto na ako [sa hotel], pinanood ko yung Australia versus Japan.”
Amer’s inclusion to the team, as per head coach Chot Reyes, stems from their need to field in a team that has adept size to keep up with the Australians, who has a 7-foot-1 center in Thon Maker and two 6-foot-10 big men.
But for some, it’s more than just a need. It’s also a well-deserved promotion for the 25-year-old, knowing that Gilas won’t have ace guard Kiefer Ravena, as he is currently serving an 18-month suspension due to banned substances.
So for Amer, he’s keen on showing up on Monday night. And he’s also looking to bring the fine play he has with the Meralco Bolts in the PBA, where he is currently norming 13.9 points and 4.09 dimes in the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup.
“Kung ano yung nilalaro ko sa Meralco, i-apply ko lang bukas.”
