MANILA — National coach Tim Cone announced that there are no plans to expand the Gilas Pilipinas player pool following the team’s challenging campaign in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers last week.
Despite a 91-84 loss to Taiwan and an 87-70 defeat to New Zealand, Gilas Pilipinas finished group play with a 4-2 record, securing a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup.
Cone, also the head coach of Barangay Ginebra, clarified that adding more players is not a straightforward decision.
“It’s not just about adding more players,” Cone explained after Barangay Ginebra’s 115-93 win in the PBA semifinals. “There are finances, travel, and practice time involved. We have a program, and we’re sticking to it.”
Despite the setbacks, including losses in the four-nation friendlies in Doha, Cone remains optimistic.
“Failure is part of the learning process. We’re not going to win all the time, but we can always improve,” said the 67-year-old coach.
He emphasized the team’s commitment to progress and assured fans that, as long as players are willing to represent the team, the current pool will remain unchanged.
Cone’s decision to keep the roster intact may not please all fans, but he is steadfast in following the long-term plan.
Lately, Cone admitted team Gilas is sorely missing the services of Kian Sotto.
A standout player for Gilas Pilipinas, Sotto is currently in rehabilitation following surgery for a torn ACL in his left knee.
His recovery includes a rigorous strength and conditioning program as he works toward regaining his form and returning to the court as soon as possible.
The Gilas Pilipinas team is feeling his absence, adjusting to play without their key player for the remainder of the season.
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