Gilas’ Asiad stint in peril?

MANILA, Philippines — Because of the Philippine-Australia brawl in the World Cup qualifier, the Philippines suddenly faces a predicament in its participation in the 2018 Asian Games men’s basketball competition in Indonesia with the possible suspension of a number of Gilas players.

“The host Indonesian federation has called. They’re concerned with our participation. Hopefully, the FIBA considers our participation there. Hopefully, (the decision) will not affect our participation in the Asian Games,” said Philippine Olympic Committee secretary general Patrick Gregorio in a press conference at the PBA office in Libis, Quezon City last night.

Deadline for submission of the final 12 to the Asiad is done, with the Philippines naming Gilas veterans Jayson Castro, RR Pogoy, Troy Rosario, Terrence Romeo and Andray Blatche to lead the roster featuring the core of TNT KaTropa team plus Gilas cadets Kobe Paras, Abu Tratter and Ricci Rivero.

Jericho Cruz, Don Trollano, Anthony Semerad and Kelly Williams complete the cast.

Castro, Pogoy, Rosario, Romeo and Blatche, however, all face possible FIBA sanctions for their part in their fracas with the Aussies.

Gilas may have no problem in the next windows of the FIBA WC qualifiers, with PBA commissioner Willie Marcial assuring their continued solid support to Team Phl.

“The PBA teams will continue to lend players to Gilas. If there will be suspensions, I’m sure our ball clubs will be willing to release replacements,” Marcial told The STAR.

The PBA commissioner stressed Gilas Pilipinas has the entire PBA player roster as pool of possible player replacements in case some Gilas players are meted suspension.

Calvin Abueva, Matthew Wright, Carl Bryan Cruz and Jio Jalalon may also be penalized by FIBA for their clear participation in the melee.

Meanwhile, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio is hoping the International Basketball Federation won’t be too harsh in the decision to be made on the incident.

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