Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone has expressed his satisfaction with the team's evolving roster, highlighting the timely arrival of Fil-American center Quentin Millora-Brown as a significant boost for the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
A New Physical Presence for Gilas
Coach Cone confirmed that the 6-foot-10 Millora-Brown has filled a crucial gap in the team's training pool. He brings a distinct skill set that differentiates him from other big men like Kai Sotto, AJ Edu, Japeth Aguilar, and June Mar Fajardo. Cone emphasized that the team was lacking a certain type of player, which Millora-Brown perfectly embodies.
"He is a physical type of player and I think that's what we lack. I think we need that physicality," Cone stated in an interview with Spin.ph. This physical presence is expected to fortify the Philippine squad's defense and rebounding capabilities.
FIBA Approval and Immediate Impact
The integration of Millora-Brown into the national team was made possible after FIBA approved the request from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) to consider him as a local player. This recent decision allowed for his immediate inclusion in the Gilas training pool, streamlining his path to representing the country.
His addition is particularly vital for Window 1 of the qualifiers, as star center Kai Sotto will be unavailable while he continues to recover from an ACL injury. Millora-Brown's availability provides Coach Cone with a much-needed reliable option in the frontcourt.
Addressing a Critical Need
Coach Cone elaborated on the value Millora-Brown brings, especially in the absence of Sotto. He highlighted the importance of having multiple big, physical players on the roster to handle the rigors of international competition.
"It's nice to have a guy at 6-10 who is physical. June Mar, obviously, is the other big, physical presence that we have," Cone added. "We are still missing Kai but just a guy that can play off on the weak side of the offense, and collect rebounds and give us extra opportunities."
This strategic acquisition underscores Gilas Pilipinas's determination to build a well-rounded and competitive team for the crucial FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, aiming to secure a spot in the next World Cup.
