With only 11 days remaining before their first game in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, the pieces are falling into place for Gilas Pilipinas.
Star point guard Scottie Thompson has rejoined the Philippine men’s national basketball team during its practice on Sunday evening.
Thompson, the current PBA Most Valuable Player, had been absent since the Lithuanian training camp of Gilas due to a metacarpal fracture in his right hand.
Hailing from Davao City, he reportedly participated in the team’s shooting drills, as noted by present players.
Kai Sotto also participated in the drills.
According to Gilas team manager Butch Antonio, SBP’s resident doctor, Dr. Randy Molo, is in discussions with Sotto’s physician to secure clearance for his participation in the scrimmages.
Completing the Gilas lineup are Jordan Clarkson, Kiefer Ravena, June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Dwight Ramos, Roger Pogoy, CJ Perez, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Thirdy Ravena, Jamie Malonzo, Chris Newsome, AJ Edu, Calvin Oftana, and Rhenz Abando.
Before the World Cup, the Philippines has three remaining tune-up matches against Cote D’Ivoire on Friday, Montenegro on the 20th, and Mexico on the 21st.
Gilas is grouped with the Dominican Republic (August 25), Angola (August 27), and Italy (August 29) in this global showcase.
