Troy Rosario knows how important the journey is in reaching the final goal
In a surprise last Tuesday, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes added TNT Katropa’s Troy Rosario to the National Team pool — becoming the 25th member of the Seniors Team that will represent the country in international tournaments for the next four years.
Rosario, who was part of the Philippine team during the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament-Manila last July, admitted that he was surprised when he heard the news on social media.
“Nabigla ako yung wife ko nagsabi sa akin. Nag-meemeeting kami nung wedding coordinator namin tapos may lumabas na article na pinayagan ako ng PBA na mapasama sa Gilas,” the 25-year-old shared.
Playing for the National Team for the past two years, the product of National University knows full well that Gilas needs all the bodies it can get.
Back in 2015, Rosario, a cadet at the time, helped in the campaign of the Nationals during the SEABA Championship and the FIBA Asia Championship. It was widely reported that the 6-foot-7 forward slept in the pantry of the Meralco Gym just so the Seniors Team would have enough bodies during their nightly workouts.
Being the second cager of TNT named to the pool, Rosario is hoping that other PBA franchises or even the players themselves join them once Gilas’ practices begin. For him, the journey is as important as the end goal.
“Gusto ko rin makita yun para full yung suporta. Hindi lang isa per team.
“Gusto ko makita yung mga teams na mag-volunteer din ng players para sa Gilas. Kasi hindi lang naman yung final pool yung importante. Nung nakita ko nung last Gilas, ang importante ay yung mga nag-preprepare sa Final 12,” he shared.
“Malaking tulong talaga yun like sila Mo [Tautuaa] dati na kahit wala sila sa line-up, nakiki-practice sila dati. Fresh yung mga naglalaro at ginagawa namin sa practice,” he furthered.
And who knows? It might also serve as an audition to Gilas Pilipinas.
