From struggling to find players to join the team, Gilas Pilipinas has become the end goal of every Filipino basketball player.
Unlike before, the program now has multiple teams under its umbrella. This includes the Elite team for the seniors division, the Cadets squad for the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup, and the youth teams.
But outside of its increasing pool of players, the Gilas program is also extending its reach to the coaches.
Last Saturday, there was a new member in the staff of Batang Gilas – Nazareth School of National University mentor Goldwin Monteverde. And his addition does not stem from NU lending Bullpups Terrence Fortea, Gerry Abadiano, and Carl Tamayo to the Batang Gilas squad set to compete in the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup.
“Even before Goldwin was absorbed, the players from NU were already coming in,” shared Batang Gilas assistant coach Josh Reyes.
For Gilas head coach Chot Reyes, being part of Gilas is not just about the players from the national team. The coaches are also a big part of the story of Gilas.
And it’s about giving opportunity to everyone who wants to represent the country.
“The Gilas program is not just about the players. It also includes the coaches,” Reyes said.
“That’s why we got coach Mike Oliver a few years back. This time we tapped coach Goldwin. It’s for everyone to have exposure on the international stage and for the players to have new insights as well.“
