SBP: There’s enough time for Gilas buildup

MANILA, Philippines - With just under two months left before the 2015 FIBA Asia Championships, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has yet to announce the final lineup to Changsha, China.

The tournament is scheduled Sept. 23 to Oct. 3. At stake is an automatic slot to the 2016 Rio Olympics. It goes to the champion.

The clock is ticking, and yet SBP executive director Sonny Barrios told yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate there’s no need to panic.

“It’s not too late,” said the former PBA commissioner, adding that the final lineup being prepared by head coach Tab Baldwin may be announced on Monday.

“It may not be that ideal but Filipinos are known to rise to the challenge of adversity,” said Barrios, the past few days being bombarded with questions from mediamen.

“We really don’t know who’s there and who’s not. The idea is for us to announce the whole lineup,” he said, begging off to even drop a few names.

“I’d rather not talk about names,” he said.

In the 2013 FIBA Asia, held at the Mall of Asia Arena, the Philippines finished second behind Iran, and gained entry to the World Championships in Spain.

If and when the final lineup is announced early next week, the team will have just enough time to prepare for the year’s biggest tournament.

Baldwin has certain players in mind but Barrios said there’s no guarantee that he can get them to play for Gilas this time.

June Mar Fajardo, the back-to-back MVP in the PBA, has reportedly begged off due to pain on his feet that carries all his weight.

Also in the wish list but may not be available is Marc Pingris, who will have to attend to family matters by the time the team plunges into training.

Barrios, again, said there’s enough time left.

Regarding Fajardo, he said there’s still a ray of hope that things will get better in the coming days. He’s keeping his fingers crossed on the 6-foot-10 center.

“It will depend on two things – the checkup and his own decision. We have to respect the individual decision of the player,” said Barrios.

Even the coach of the US basketball team doesn’t get every player he wants in the team.

“Even Kobe Bryant begs off,” he said.

“We just have to put our best foot forward,” Barrios added.