Gilas Pilipinas Weathering the Storm Sans Kai

Title Gilas Pilipinas Weathering the Storm Sans Kai

As the Philippine national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, prepares to face Taiwan and New Zealand in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers next week, Coach Tim Cone remains focused on building a stronger team despite the absence of star player Kai Sotto. The 7-foot-3 big man underwent knee surgery last month after tearing his ACL during a Japan B.League game.

In a recent interview with One Sports' Play by Play, Coach Cone acknowledged that the team's dynamics have changed without Sotto, who is considered a unique asset due to his exceptional abilities on the court. However, he remains confident that Gilas Pilipinas can still succeed even without their towering forward.

We're currently scattered due to some players missing practice, but we've got great individuals stepping up and making a positive impact, Coach Cone said.

Veteran Meralco wingman Chris Newsome and Carl Tamayo missed the team's two-day training camp earlier this week due to commitments with their respective teams in the East Asia Super League (EASL) and Korean Basketball League (KBL). However, both are expected to join the team in Qatar by Friday for the friendly tournament.

In related news, Kevin Quiambao managed to join the team on time for its departure to Doha on Thursday morning. Unfortunately, Dwight Ramos sustained an ankle injury during a Japan B.League game, while naturalized player Justin Brownlee continues to manage issues with his hip and foot blister.

Despite these challenges, Coach Cone believes that the return of Filipino Cypriot big man AJ Edu and wingman Jamie Malonzo will give Gilas Pilipinas a new look, particularly on the defensive end. AJ Edu will be joining us for the first time, said Coach Cone. He's an exceptional defensive player. And Jamie is a solid defensive wing.

The team now focuses on developing their defensive strategy without Sotto's presence in the paint. Coach Cone emphasized that no one can fully replace the injured big man, but he remains confident that Gilas Pilipinas can adapt and find ways to succeed.

After their Doha sojourn, Gilas Pilipinas will plunge into action on February 20 against Taiwan, followed by New Zealand in Auckland on February 23. With an unbeaten record, the Philippines is eyeing to close the last window with victories. The team has already secured a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup tournament proper set in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia this August.

As Gilas Pilipinas navigates the challenges of playing without Sotto, they will need to rely on their collective strength and teamwork to emerge victorious. With a strong defensive strategy and a united front, Coach Cone believes that his team can weather any storm and achieve success.

Keywords Gilas Pilipinas, FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, Tim Cone, Kai Sotto, Meralco Bolts, East Asia Super League (EASL), Korean Basketball League (KBL), AJ Edu, Jamie Malonzo

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.