THE door remains open for Gilas Pilipinas to see action as a guest team in the PBA.
Commissioner Willie Marcial said he'll be in talks with Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio on the possibility of allowing the men's national team to see action in the second conference of the league.
"Depende sa pag-uusapan namin ni SBP President Al Panlilio kung makakalaro ang Gilas kahit buong conference," disclosed the PBA chief in Friday's virtual media conference formally announcing the kickoff of the league's 46th season on July 16.
The Gilas team just arrived from Belgrade, Serbia where it saw action in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament, giving itself a good account against no. 5 Serbia and no. 19 Dominican Republic despite losing both games.
The young squad will take at least a two-week break after completing its 10-day quarantine, before resuming training as it prepares for the FIBA Asia Cup next month in Indonesia.
Sponsored content:
After the Asia Cup, Gilas sets its sight on its campaign in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, where the country is still required to compete despite already clinching a berth in the 2023 world championship as one of three co-host countries.
If Gilas' schedule won't allow them to participate for a whole conference, Marcial said the league could adjust and let Gilas play, perhaps in just a couple of games.
"Mga ilan-ilan. Six or seven games. Depende sa pag-uusapan namin at depende sa programa ng SBP," Marcial added.
A stint in the PBA should also augurs well for Gilas' year-round training especially with the 30th Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam being postponed for next year. (RG)
