Angara confident Gilas carries ‘excellent chance’

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Sonny Angara, who is chairman of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), joined the nation in cheering for Gilas Pilipinas as they kick off their quest to regain the nation’s glory in the world hoops stage today.

He said with the present composition of the national team, including its stellar coaching staff, “we have reason to be very optimistic about our chances in this year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.”

“A lot is at stake here in this tournament. The Philippines has an excellent chance of getting back to the Olympics by posting a strong performance in the World Cup,” Angara said in a statement.

The game is not without challenges though as the country is in the same group as the number one ranked Serbia. 

“The Philippines is no stranger to adversity and there is no question that no matter how harshly we are tested, the Filipino spirit remains unbroken. Mabuhay ang Gilas Pilipinas!” he said.