We are less than 24 hours away from the announcement of the final 24 that will make it to this year’s iteration of Gilas Pilipinas.
With half of the pool already filled-up by this batch of cadets, the other half is set to be composed of PBA players, or their “kuyas.”
We asked some of the cadets who they want to be with them in this journey that is supported by SMART Sports and Chooks-to-Go.
Carl Cruz (Alaska Aces)
Aside from Calvin [Abueva], siguro I think si kuya Sonny Thoss can be considered. If siya yung napili, I hope na healthy siya palagi.
Alfonzo Gotladera (NLEX Road Warriors)
I would say a fellow big man Bradwyn [Guinto]. I think he is a good inside presence and he is also a good teammate because of his basketball IQ. He knows how to read and react. Bradwyn is going to be a good choice.
Ed Daquioag (Meralco Bolts)
Kung ako pipili si [Jonathan] Grey e. Nakasama ko rin siya dati. Tingin ko bata kasi ang hinahanap ni coach Chot. Kung puwede si [Chris] Newsome, siya rin.
Matthew Wright (Phoenix Fuel Masters)
Tough question. That’s hard because if they pick Simon [Enciso], there wil be a huge possibility that me and Simon won’t be able to play in the second conference. That will completely deplete our backcourt. Maybe JC [Intal] or Norbert [Torres]? Whatever coach Chot needs.
Kevin Ferrer (Ginebra)
Para sa akin, depende naman sa need ng team. Kung big man ang kailangan ni coach Chot, siguro si kuya Japeth [Aguilar] or si kuya Greg [Slaughter]. Kung point guard ang kailangan, si kuya LA [Tenorio] kasi may experience na siya or si Scottie pag bata ang gusto niya. Basta para sa akin, kung pipili ako, ang pinaka importante ay yung willing ipaglaban yung bansa natin ng buong puso hangga’t sa makakaya.
Mac Belo (Blackwater Elite)
Si Art [dela Cruz]. Kasi siya yung pinaka-stable sa’min. Matalino rin siya maglaro, so malaking advantage yun sa international game.