MANILA -- Senator Sonny Angara, chairman of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, on Friday said he is optimistic about Gilas Pilipinas’ chances in this year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup in China, given the present composition of the national team and its stellar coaching staff.
“We join the entire nation in cheering for our Gilas Pilipinas as they kick off their quest to regain our nation’s glory in the world hoops stage today,” Angara said in a statement.
“A lot is at stake here in this tournament. The Philippines has an excellent chance of getting back to the Olympics by posting a strong performance in the World Cup,” he added.
The senator, however, noted that achieving such a feat is not without challenges as the national team is in the same group as the number one ranked Serbia.
“The Philippines is no stranger to adversity and there is no question that no matter how harshly we are tested, the Filipino spirit remains unbroken. Mabuhay ang Gilas Pilipinas! (Long live Gilas Pilipinas!),” he said.
President Rodrigo Duterte is scheduled to watch Gilas compete against Italy at the International Sports and Cultural Arena in Foshan City on Saturday. (PNA)
