Gilas Pilipinas got a harsh reality check after getting mauled by Italy in the 2019 FIBA World Cup Saturday night in Foshan, China. Still, head coach Yeng Guiao still saw some positives despite the 46-point beatdown.
“I guess if we’re looking at anything that’s positive in this game, [it] is that our young guys played [with] heart,” he said.
The veteran bench strategist was alluding to the bravery of the Filipino dribblers’ trio of young guards. CJ Perez, Robert Bolick, and Kiefer Ravena were all making their maiden appearance in the World Cup.
Perez had a fine performance of 15 points on 7-of-12 shooting, together with three assists, two rebounds, and a steal. Bolick had six points, two boards, and a dime, while Ravena added five markers and two caroms.
They came off the bench and tried to provide some spark. It wasn’t enough, but Guiao still liked what he saw.
“CJ Perez, who’s a rookie, got fifteen points. He played his heart out, as well as Robert Bolick and Kiefer,” said Guiao.
“So if there’s anything positive we can pick up from a bad loss like this, it’s just that our young guys really gave it all.”
Still, the loss left a bad taste in the mouth of every Gilas member. But for Guiao, they will charge it to experience.
“We prepared long, but a lot of that preparation did not manifest itself. Of course, we’re disappointed but it’s a learning experience,” he said.
“We still have two games to go. We’ll try to play our best in the two games that’s left.”
