With Gilas Pilipinas pressed for time for the 30th Southeast Asian Games, interim national team head coach Tim Cone nominated a talent pool spearheaded by players very familiar with his system.
On Thursday, Cone unveiled the 15-man pool made particularly for the regional meet on December. Six of his key players in the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel lead the selection.
Leading the pack are LA Tenorio, Scottie Thompson, Japeth Aguilar, Greg Slaughter, Stanley Pringle, and Art Dela Cruz.
“I got six Ginebra players so that the teaching will be minimal,” said Cone after the announcement at the PBA office.
Joining the Gin Kings’ core are TNT KaTropa’s Roger Pogoy and Troy Rosario. Jayson Castro is also returning to the Gilas program after taking a break in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
“I’m very happy to announce Jayson Castro is coming back,” said the decorated bench strategist.
Also in the pool are San Miguel Beermen’s Chris Ross, Christian Standhardinger, Marcio Lassiter, and PBA reigning five-time Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo.
Completing the cast are Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters main man Matthew Wright and Alaska Aces star Vic Manuel.
Cone said that they did not include amateur players since the collegiate leagues are still ongoing.
