Scouting Report: FIBA U-16-bound Batang Gilas

MANILA, Philippines – The 12-man lineup for the Philippine Under-16 team that will be competing in the FIBA U-16 Championships in Foshan, China, was announced the previous week by the coaching staff as led by Mike Oliver.

The coaches placed a premium on size, speed and outside shooting to counter the taller opponents, especially in the group stage where the Filipinos go up against Australia and Malaysia.

Here’s a scouting report on the players who make up the national team:

Kai Sotto (Ateneo), 7’1” center

The team’s pillar of defense. Rim protector. Has an array of moves inside and can pass the ball. And he can hit that jumper when need be.

RC Calimag (De La Salle Zobel), 6’1” shooting guard

Slashes inside. Has an outside shot. Zone breaker.

Geo Chiu (Ateneo), 6’8” center

A big body inside to backstop Sotto. Can rebound and play defense. Still working on the offense and learning the game. Good upside.

Raven Cortez (De La Salle Zobel), 6’7” power forward/center

A mobile big man just like Sotto. Rim protector. Can put the ball on the floor and even drive inside.

Terrence Fortea (National University), 5’11” point guard

Will help in the ball distribution. Can break down defenses with his ability to get to the rim. Has an array of moves to break down those defenses — pull-up jumper, a floater, a pull-up jumper and a 3-point shot.

Mac Guadaña (Lyceum of the Philippines), 5’11” shooting guard

Along with Fortea and Calimag, will break down defenses with his ability to get to the rim. Will also guard the perimeter players of opposing teams. Has good range especially from the corners.

Joshua Lazaro (San Beda), 6’4” small forward

Deceptive because of his lack of width. But what he doesn’t have in bulk, he makes up in terms of athletic ability. Plays great defense. Attacks the rim and can rebound.

Forthsky Padrigao (Ateneo), 5’11” point guard

A true playmaker who will make everyone better. If you aren’t attuned to his wavelength, you will miss those nifty crosscourt passes. Sees plays happen before they do so players need to run where they need to go.

Rafael Go (Chiang Kai Shek College), 6’4” small forward

Quick first step helps him get to the basket. Good outside shot keeps opponents guessing if he is driving to the hoop or not. If he is closely guarded, expect him to attack.

And there are three newcomers to the team. All were chosen to backstop certain positions on the team.

Yukien Andrada (San Beda), 6’5” power forward

A wide body who can bang inside. Can score from medium range.

King Balaga (FEU), 5’11” shooting guard

Combo guard. Strong. Can get to the rim.

Kyle Bautista (FEU), 5’11” point guard

Point guard. And one of the designated shooters of the team.