Jack Animam’s next journey will be 9,654-kilometers away from the Philippines, as she will play for Radnički Kragujevac in Serbia.
With her being so far away, the question is whether she can still join Gilas Pilipinas Women’s campaigns for the year.
With the First Women’s Basketball League of Serbia’s 2021-22 season beginning next month, Animam will most definitely not be able to play in the 2021 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup set from September 27 to October 3 in Amman, Jordan.
Though Animam wants to play for Gilas, it would be hard for her to do so since a strong start in the Serbian league is a must.
“I’m very hopeful that the Filipino schedule is favorable with the FIBA events. I’ll still respect their decision if I can play,” said Animam, who is set to leave the US on Friday to head to Serbia.
“I hope I can still play.”
Gilas Women’s program director and head coach Patrick Aquino has no qualms about it.
After all, playing in one of Europe’s top-tier leagues is an opportunity Animam can not waste.
“This is not just an achievement of Jack, but an achievement that is celebrated by many young Filipina ballers,” said the decorated head coach. “She will be paving the way for the next generation Filipina ballers. Now that she is competing at that level, we are hoping she will bring it back for us.
“We are hoping that Jack will always be there to represent the flag and country.”
Fortunately for Gilas Women, the Asia Cup is the only tournament for this year.
Up next after that will be the Southeast Asian Games next year. By then, Animam’s duty for Radnički will have finished.
By then, Aquino expects Animam to grow by leaps and bounds. Moreover, Animam will be the one sharing her knowledge to the team.
“Siyempre, she’s going to play in one of the best basketball countries in the world. So ‘yung talent na makakalaban niya doon will only help her na ma-improve pa, lalo ‘yung galing niya,” he said.
“It’s something she can bring back here sa atin and share to our local players para tumaas lalo ‘yung level of play ng mga babae dito.”
