When Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced Gilas Pilipinas 20-man pool for the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers fifth window, three UAAP standouts were included.
Carl Tamayo of University of the Philippines, Ange Kouame of Ateneo de Manila University, and Kevin Quiambao of De La Salle University were called up for the window.
UAAP has adjusted already before the start of its 85th season, inserting a 12-day international break that will run from November 7 to 16, resuming play on the 17th.
For UP coach Goldwin Monteverde, he believes that his 6-foot-7 forward will not have difficulty adjusting to Gilas and back to the Fighting Maroons camp, all happening within two weeks.
The Philippines will first face Jordan on November 11 before meeting Saudi Arabia on the 14th.
UP, which sealed at least a playoff for fourth on Saturday, will then buckle back to work on the 17th when the Fighting Maroons clash with Far Eastern University.
“I think naman si Carl sanay na siya na (mag Gilas tapos balik sa UP) and kahit papaano we have time to practice din together,” said the second-year UP tactician.
“I don’t think naman makaka-affect yun kay Carl kung sakaling [makapasok] siya sa Gilas.”
But the Fighting Maroons proved that it is not a one-man team when they turned down University of the East, 83-69, even with Tamayo being held scoreless.
Malick Diouf and Zavier Lucero stepped up to the task with big numbers against the Red Warriors.
The 6-foot-11 Senegalese center reset his career-high in points with 23 on 10-of-13 shooting from the field with 15 rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks.
Meanwhile, the graduating Lucero tallied 17 points, four assists, and two blocks.
“Zavier and Malick going big sa game namin. Lagi naming pinaguusapan basta lahat kami we just work hard,” continued Monteverde.
