With Window 4 of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers falling during the off-season for most leagues around the world, national teams are expected to beef up their rosters for the crucial window.
NBA players are representing their respective countries before returning to their teams, including Japan’s Rui Hachimura.
However, Gilas Pilipinas Men are having a hard time fielding the best of the best for this crucial window.
“Yeah, the margin of error has really dissipated for us,” said Gilas head coach Tim Cone as the Philippines enters Group E with a 2-4 record.
“Like I’ve been saying over the last few weeks, this is an all-hands-on-deck kind of thing. We’re trying to get everybody to show up.”
Despite the sense of urgency, Gilas’ “frontline of the future” won’t be available.
Quentin Millora-Brown?
“QMB is doubtful with his back surgery.”
(C) FIBA
Mike Phillips?
“He has his brother’s wedding, so he’s begging off.”
What about Kai Sotto?
“No word. From what I understand, he’s still working on the NCAA and trying to get there.”
That is why, despite his struggles in the qualifiers so far, June Mar Fajardo—and all of his 36-year-old self—is postponing his national team retirement for the window that will see Gilas face Jordan and Iran at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“June Mar wanted to retire, but we pulled him back in for the window. Although he’s doubtful for the Asian Games,” said Cone.
“So we certainly have our issues.”
Despite their manpower woes, Cone remains defiant.
After all, Gilas’ loyal soldiers like Dwight Ramos, Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, AJ Edu, and, of course, Justin Brownlee will be there.
“It’s really on me to make sure we get all the best players. We haven’t been able to do that. I’ve been failing in my job because I just haven’t been able to get all the best players,” he lamented.
“But we’ve still got Dwight and Carl and KQ and Justin. So we’re going to put up a fight here against them. We have AJ Edu still playing for us. We’d like a little bit more size, but it is what it is.”
