Gilas gentle giant slams, rocks ’em

MANILA, Philippines - Japeth Aguilar has never been much appreciated for his game until this 2013 Asian joust.

The 6-foot-9 center has finally put into good use his athleticism and quickness, making a breakthrough in the regional world championship qualifier.

With towering rebounds, crucial blocks and jams that rocked the Mall of Asia Arena crowd, Aguilar helped energize Gilas Pilipinas in crucial victories over Japan and Qatar.

He was at his finest Tuesday night, pouring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds as the Nationals smothered the Qataris, 80-70.

Aguilar, obviously, is highly motivated.

“The biggest motivation is playing before the Filipino crowd. You just don’t want to let them down,” said Aguilar, a big flop in two previous FIBA Asia Championship stints.

“Japeth is doing his role. You know, the dunks are spectacular but what he’s really doing well is playing defense and getting rebounds,” Gilas coach Chot Reyes said. “He’s doing a fantastic job.”

“It’s not about myself. It’s actually a team effort,” said Aguilar.

Among the last men in the Phl team rotation in Tianjin in 2009 and in Wuhan in 2011, Aguilar has emerged the most important big man after Marcus Douthit in this competition.

A player who used to shy away from banging inside, Aguilar is now always right there in action at the paint and high above the basket.

He also knocks down perimeter jumper when opportunity calls for it.

He truly justifies his late addition to the team upon his return from a failed bid to make the NBA D-League.

With Aguilar in the US, Reyes threw a barrage on Twitter, advising the player to better come home and serve the country.

Good thing, Aguilar heeded the call.