Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

Tiebreaker Times

2023 FIBA World Cup

Chot Reyes says win vs Ukraine U20 is ‘worst game’ so far


Gilas Pilipinas got a hard-fought 70-61 victory over Ukraine’s Under-20 team on Saturday at Zalgirio Arena in Kaunas .

Despite coach Chot Reyes labeling it their worst performance to date, the Philippine national basketball team managed to hold their ground and claim their first win in the ongoing European training camp.

Led by the energetic Rhenz Abando, Gilas did not let up throughout the game, avoiding an upset.

This victory signifies a crucial step forward for the national team as they gear up for the highly 2023 FIBA World Cup.

However, Reyes remained far from satisfied with his team’s overall performance against a Ukrainian side he described as “tall, well-disciplined, and well-coached.”

In a post-game interview with the SBP’s Carlo Pamintuan, Reyes expressed his disappointment, highlighting areas for improvement.

“If I were to rate it, I think this is the worst game that we played since the start,” lamented Reyes.

“I know this is the game that we won, but I believe there’s a lot more that can be desired from our team.”

The coach particularly emphasized the defensive lapses committed by the squad, compounded by the absence of key players Scottie Thompson (back spasm) and Chris Newsome (bruised knee).

Reyes acknowledged the challenges faced by Gilas Pilipinas, stating, “Of course, we came into this game without our top two point guards, so it was somewhat understandable given the circumstances.”

However, he stressed the need for continuous improvement and heightened performance standards as the team progresses on their overall journey.

An upcoming rematch against Ukraine is set for Sunday.

#ReadMore  Cone taps Jimmy Alapag, Jong Uichico as Gilas assistant coaches
Written By


You May Also Like

Basketball

Gilas Pilipinas continue to navigate around manpower woes but the return of Scottie Thompson and June Mar Fajardo is a reason why Coach Tim...

Basketball

Justin Brownlee is expected to suit up and play in Gilas Pilipinas’ home stand in the upcoming window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025...

Basketball

AJ Edu is doubtful to see action for Gilas Pilipinas in the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers’ second window no thanks to another...

Basketball

Aside from the pride of representing Gilas Pilipinas once again, Kevin Quiambao shared that his newborn son, Kevin Vennan, will serve as an added...

Basketball

Angelo Kouame has rejoined the Gilas Pilipinas pool for the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers. The 6-foot-11 Filipino-Ivorian center, who currently plays for...

Basketball

Justin Brownlee is hoping for another crack at Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and TNT after falling short in the PBA Season 49 Governors Cup Finals. The...

Basketball

TNT completed its back-to-back bid in the PBA Governors’ Cup following a dramatic 95-85 come-from-behind win over Barangay Ginebra in Game 6 of the...

Basketball

Calvin Oftana let his game do all the talking to show that he has moved on from his frustrations back in Game 4 of...

Advertisement