MANILA, Philippines – Smart Gilas Pilipinas could really make a good run in the PBA Commissioners Cup as indicated by its impressive showing in recent tune-up matches.
The Nationals humbled the Meralco Bolts B-Boys, 91-87, Wednesday then fought the Barangay Ginebra Kings to a 104-all standoff Thursday.
“We’re holding our own but there are still so many things we need to improve on,” said Toroman, who was present during the launching of the MVP Sports Foundation, Inc. at the Meralco Gym Friday night.
“I’m sure we’ll be toughened up by the official games we’ll play in the PBA. We’re looking forward to our PBA stint which could help us a lot,” Toroman added.
The Nationals start their campaign in the PBA Commissioners Cup versus the Talk n Text Tropang Texters on Feb. 25 at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo.
“We’re going to face Talk N’ Text in our first game, and it will surely be tough for us. It’s good as we would be tested early,” said Smart Gilas team manager Frankie Lim.
Smart Gilas, however, may miss versatile guard JV Casio who’s nursing a groin injury.
“He suffered a groin injury and did not play in our tune-up game against Ginebra,” said Smart Gilas operations chief Butch Antonio.
The Nationals will be bannered by naturalization candidate Marcus Douthit, who at 6-10 could be a dominant force facing imports with a maximum height limit of only 6-foot-4.
Team captain Chris Tiu, co-skipper Mark Barroca, Mac Baracael, Marcio Lassiter, Dylan Ababou, Greg Slaughter, Jason Ballesteros, Aldrech Ramos, Chris Lutz and Japeth Aguilar complete the Smart Gilas roster.
Smart Gilas is out to duplicate the feat of Northern Consolidated in 1984 when the Nationals then topped Manila Beer for the Reinforced Conference crown.