Woe to Gilas 3 x 3 squad which lost to an “All-American (?)” trio in the SEAG men’s finals.
The Pinoys did not know what hit them when the names of the “naturalized” players for Cambodia were announced.
Brandon Peterson, Sayeed Pridgtee and Darrin Dorsey tamed the Gilas squad of Almond Vosotros,, Joseph Eriobu, Joseph Sedurifa and Lervin Flores, 2015, to bag Cambodia’s first basketball gold ever since.
The SEAG is not under FIBA rules and is a creation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Stipulations are “diplomatically” relaxed to afford all ASEAN members to host and organize the SEAG according to their organizational ability and resources to avoid ruffling the other member’s feelings.
If Cambodia – as hosts – emerges overall champions, the rest of the ASEAN will welcome the development as they did when Vietnam came out of the shadows and hosted the 2000 edition.
Now, Gilas coach Chot Reyes’ headaches may be multiplying as the Cambodians seem prepared to snatch basketball glory from the Pinoys and the defending titlists Indonesia.
If Cambodia was allowed to field three naturalized players in the 3 x 3, why would it not field a stronger trio of naturalized Americans in the 5 x 5 as this is its only opportunity to get the much coveted hoops gold?
Were these rules not known to the SBP?
So, then I won’t be raising my eyebrows should the Indons retain their hold of the SEAG cage crown or Cambodia sneaks in as a dark horse.
The reigning SEAG champs will be bannered by former PBA import Lester Prosper, Anthony Beane and Dame Diagne, a development that should create quite an anxiety for the Pinoys.
Gilas will not have big boys Japhet Aguilar and JunMar Fajardo, two “must have” veterans in the line-up.
Wonder if 6-11 naturalized player Ange Kouame will get a spot as a sub center to alternate with Christian Standhardinger in the middle. I’m certain Kouame would serve with alacrity and prove his naturalization wasn’t a mistake.
I doubt if Pinoy Justin Brownlee alone can help Gilas squeak past the competition.
Nifty outside sniping, particularly from beyond the arc, speed and tough defense will be the keys to offsetting the height deficit of Gilas.
Note that our ASEAN neighbors have also hired foreign mentors.
The level of officiating is also another factor that has to be considered.
Reyes and his talented coaching staff remain confident though, despite these very touchy, sensitive and oftentimes, ignored, developments.
Go, get back the SEAG title, Gilas Pilipinas! (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
