MANILA — Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner Willie Marcial said Monday he is eagerly awaiting a call from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) this week to discuss their plan of action following Chot Reyes’ resignation from the Gilas coaching position and the unavailability of other national team members for the upcoming 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

“We anticipate SBP President Al Panlilio will convene a meeting soon, depending on his schedule this week,” Marcial said.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation with the Asian Games commencing on September 23, Marcial refrained from suggesting sending a team to the quadrennial basketball event, stating that they prefer to align with SBP’s decisions.

“Ultimately, our course of action hinges on SBP’s requirements, but we’re fully prepared to offer our assistance,” he affirmed.

Marcial’s primary concern is the players’ readiness, given that most of them are on vacation following the conclusion of the PBA On Tour in July.

“We can’t commit to sending a team right now since the players are on vacation,” he explained. “Decisions regarding sending a team to the Asian Games or contributing players to bolster the Gilas team will require thorough discussion,” Marcial added.

In the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, the PBA sent the core of the Rain or Shine team. During that event, coached by Yeng Guiao, the Philippines introduced Jordan Clarkson in a Gilas uniform for the first time. The national team narrowly lost to South Korea and China, finishing fifth in the competition.

Currently, the Gilas team is in limbo following Reyes’ resignation, which came after the Philippines’ dominant 96-75 victory over China in their 2023 FIBA World Cup campaign at the Big Dome on Saturday night.

Five Gilas members will not be returning for the Asian Games due to their commitments to Japan B.League clubs in preparation for the upcoming season. AJ Edu, Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, and Kiefer Ravena will rejoin their respective teams, while Rhenz Abando is expected to rejoin Anyang KGC, the defending champion in the Korean Basketball League.

Additionally, Jordan Clarkson, who scored 34 points against China, is heading back to the United States for the Utah Jazz training camp in preparation for the upcoming NBA season. (ai/mnm)