Gilas can do it!

Gilas lost the leadership of Jason Castro. Jun Mar Fajardo looks effective at the post but Italy is very sharp in deflecting the passing lanes. Italy's guards are too tall and fast that is why our shooters are literally shooting over a mountain. 

Gilas press the panic button early in the game and they all go isolation hoping to get a quick score to get back in the game fast. On top of that, it's so scary to pass because the Italians are so sharp playing defense last night that if you pass the ball - there is a high percentage that it will just be stolen away. On the other side, it looks like Italy can hit a basket even if they are blindfolded - the offense was very smooth and they have an "adaptive" plays - it is like watching the Golden State Warriors style. 

But Heads up Filipino Basketball Fans! 

To be in the FIBA World on its own is a big achievement. Yes, we are outclassed by Italy  62-108. Yes, you can blame this and you can blame that, but the truth is the Philipines is still a "rookie" on the world stage. We have everything to gain and nothing to lose here. 

Gilas needs all the kinds of support in perpetuity - Fans should never bash the players and coaches. Instead, they should give their moral or "social media support" 

Thanks to CJ Perez - He was the bravest player in the game. He is not afraid out there and he is willing to risk it all.

For the Philippines, it is not just about winning. It is about representing our country there in the World Stage in spite of the odds. 

                              

Photo is courtesy of https://sports.abs-cbn.com/gilas/news/2019/08/30/fiba-can-gilas-shock-italy-60429