Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

Tiebreaker Times
(C) Marita Brigitta Mones

2023 FIBA World Cup

Gilas to have four more friendlies in Lithuania


Lithuania becomes the new battleground for Gilas Pilipinas as they ramp up their training camp in preparation for the highly anticipated 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Following their stint in Estonia, the Philippine men’s national basketball team is pushing their limits with rigorous training sessions and a series of challenging preparation games.

Chot Reyes revealed that Gilas is set to engage in four or possibly more games during their training camp in Lithuania. With twice-a-day practices, the team aims to elevate their performance and cohesion to new heights.

“We have four more in Lithuania. At least four more,” shared Reyes, hinting at the intensity that awaits them.

“Four games in ten days. Again, those are going to be good tests for us.”

The goal of this penultimate exercise heading into the global meet is to expose the players to different playing styles and enhance their adaptability on the court.

The Estonia tune-up games saw Gilas fall to the non-Team A squads of the home squad and Lithunia.

Nevertheless, Reyes emphasizes that these games are part of the team’s comprehensive program designed to forge a cohesive unit leading up to the World Championship.

“At this stage, we are progressively improving our conditioning. Additionally, our focus lies on defensive fundamentals, technique, and mechanics, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and comprehends our terminologies and game plan,” explained Reyes.

“We lay the foundation, gradually integrate strategic schemes, and different looks. Right now, it’s about aligning ourselves and gradually regaining game shape.”

He acknowledges that building a winning team takes time and effort. The coaching staff and players comprehend that success cannot be achieved overnight.

#ReadMore  MVP making 'very serious' moves to make Jordan Clarkson a local for Gilas

Consequently, the team commenced preparations early, fully aware of the challenges ahead.

“We know it’s not going to happen overnight; that’s why we are starting this early. That’s why we are playing all these games,” emphasized Reyes.

“That’s why, in Lithuania, we are going to have two-a-day practices, precisely because those are the goals we are striving to achieve.”

Grew to appreciate various sports from tennis to judo. True-maroon kiddo since the new millennium. Fanboy. Singer. Occasional sports writer.


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