Ricci Rivero pulled off a Marc Pingris
Even if the De La Salle University begged off having their players included in Gilas Pilipinas’ 2023 FIBA World Cup wishlist, Ricci Rivero surprisingly dropped by Gilas’ workouts on Monday at the Meralco Gym.
The athletic six-foot-two shooting guard did not have any basketball equipment with him, however. Rivero simply visited the 28-man practice clad in a plain black shirt and walking shorts, and a pair of Nike Sock Darts.
Rivero was quickly sought out by reporters for an interview after seeing him lurking in a dimly lit spot near one of the practice facility’s entrances, but the 19-year-old politely declined, saying that he wasn’t allowed to comment.
He, however, shared that this visit of his was on his own accord.
Rivero was included in the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’ list of cagers that they would like to see donning the country’s colors at the World Cup five years from now, which will be hosted by Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.
But DLSU has asked Gilas and SBP for their players not to be included in the national team, as they are currently undergoing a rebuilding process following the departure of coach Aldin Ayo to the UST Growling Tigers.
Rivero averaged 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.33 assists for the Green Archers during the recently-concluded UAAP Season 80 Men’s Basketball tournament.
