Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo (Credits: ABS-CBN)
MANILA — Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo expressed his full confidence in Tim Cone, the interim coach of Gilas, for jthe nationals’ upcoming second stint in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
The 2023 Asiad is set to begin on Saturday, September 23, 2023 and ends on October 8.
Trillo, who once served as Cone’s assistant during their successful tenure at Alaska from 2000 to 2011, where they clinched four PBA titles, is well-acquainted with Cone’s coaching philosophy.
Trillo fondly recalls Cone’s previous experience coaching at the Asian Games in 1998 when the Philippines, then represented by the Centennial team, secured a bronze medal.
He vividly remembers facing China and Korea, two teams with distinct playing styles and tempos. In the quarterfinals, they fell to Korea, 103-83, and subsequently lost to the formidable Chinese team, 92-83, in the semifinals.
However, Cone and the Philippines rebounded in the bronze medal game, triumphing over Kazakhstan to secure the third-place finish.
Trillo is convinced that Cone will be even better prepared this time around. Despite potential time constraints and personnel challenges, Cone’s exposure to international games during the last World Cup has enhanced his familiarity with the nuances and rhythm of international competition, especially the frequent back-to-back games.
With decades of involvement in the sport, Trillo emphasizes the significance of team cohesion for success.
He stresses the importance of not relying solely on a single player and highlights the need for adaptability in terms of adjusting to the pace and size of different opponent teams.
Furthermore, Trillo acknowledges the significance of the return of Calvin Abueva and Terrence Romeo to the Gilas squad, believing their presence will be a substantial asset.
