Cone building up versatile Gilas team

MANILA, Philippines – Brimming with firepower, Gilas Pilipinas is working to make itself as lethal on the defensive end as it builds up for the Southeast Asian Games.

“I really want the guys to be thinking defense, to be talking about defense and taking pride in defense as that’s going to be a big part of hopefully what we’ll do,” said Gilas coach Tim Cone after the Nationals’ practice Monday night.

“They’re great offensive players and they’re also great athletes. So if we could get them thinking defense and using their athleticism for defense, I think we can put up a really good product over there,” he added.

Cone was pleased to see a perfect attendance from his 15-man pool, most of whom played big games for their respective PBA clubs the night before.  

Meanwhile, Terrence Romeo, one of the prospects for the Gilas men’s 3x3 team, expressed excitement to answer the call of the flag again after that infamous brawl with Australia.

“I’m excited to get a chance to try out and wear the Gilas Pilipinas jersey again. Hopefully I can show I’m deserving to be in the (final 3x3) lineup because we have a deep pool,” said Romeo.