MANILA, Philippines — It would’ve been a timely opportunity for coach Tim Cone to visit family in the US with the PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals done and Gilas to leave for the FIBA World Cup Asia qualifying window in Seremban, Malaysia, on Nov. 21. But Cone said he’ll stay in town during the 10-day rest.
Cone has never compromised his work commitments. He missed his son Kevin’s wedding in the US as it was in conflict with the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games schedule. His daughter Nikki recently gave birth to a son and Cone couldn’t welcome his first grandchild in Washington, DC as he attended to Ginebra during the PBA quarterfinal series against San Miguel Beer. Cone’s willingness to sacrifice family time for national duty is commendable.
“Too far (to travel) so I won’t go,” said Cone, referring to a possible trip to the US during the break. “Nikki is coming with her baby in January so I’ll see him (grandson) then. Cris (his wife) is still in DC, returning Nov. 20. We leave (for Malaysia) on Nov. 21 so I’ll hardly see her.” Gilas plays Syria on Nov. 27 and Iran on Nov. 29 then Cone shifts his attention to the PBA semifinals which start Dec. 4.
Gilas assistant coach Richard del Rosario will leave for Malaysia a day before the team departs “to make sure everything is in place like practice venues, hotels.” Del Rosario said there will be no practice in Manila. “We don’t have enough players since only Scottie, New, Juan and CJ are here,” he noted. “Calvin (Oftana) begged off because his wife is giving birth this month.” Oftana’s exit opened the door for Rhenz Abando’s inclusion. The overseas players are due to arrive in Manila on Nov. 20. If Bennie Boatwright arrives earlier than the other overseas players, Cone said he’ll arrange a practice with Ginebra to introduce him to the Gilas system.