Sotto, Edu joining Gilas WCup pool?

MANILA, Philippines — Gilas coach Yeng Guiao is considering to tap in National Youth twin towers Kai Sotto and AJ Edu as additions to the training pool for the coming FIBA World Cup.

“We are keenly observing our youth team because we may open slots for them especially to whoever is going to do well in the U19 World Cup,” said Guiao as the Gilas training camp opened Monday night at the Meralco Gym.

“Exactly AJ and Kai… especially with the growing clamors to get them in the men’s pool. We’re open to that because that will not only be helpful for us but also for their experience in the long run,” Guiao added. 

Sotto, Ricci Rivero and Thirdy Ravena are youngsters who have been included in the Gilas training pool before.

Ravena even made it to the Gilas final roster that swept Qatar and Kazakhstan in the final window of the FIBA WC qualifier.

“As far as I’m concerned, that’s been our way every FIBA window. We always had an investment for our future,” said Guiao. “We have a deep talent pool so it’s also time to give chance to the next generation players.”

However, nothing is cast in stone as Guiao and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio are still to iron out the schedules of Sotto and Edu. 

The FIBA U19 World Cup is slated from June 30 to July 7 in Heraklion, Greece while the men’s world championship is set Aug. 31 to Sept. 15 in China.