In a significant show of support, top officials from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) made a special visit to the Gilas Pilipinas national basketball team's practice session. The visit was aimed at bolstering the team's morale as they intensify their preparations for the upcoming FIBA World Cup.
High-Profile Visit at The Upper Deck
The delegation arrived at The Upper Deck facility in Ortigas on the team's third day of training camp. Leading the group was the newly-installed SBP President, Ricky Vargas. He was accompanied by SBP Executive Director Erika Dy, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, and Gilas Pilipinas Project Director Alfrancis Chua.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, the three naturalization candidates for the national team were also present. The players in attendance were Bennie Boatwright, Malik Diouf, and Elizabeth Means, highlighting the team's strategic approach to building a competitive roster.
A Warm Welcome and Upcoming Plans
Head coach Tim Cone and his entire coaching staff warmly welcomed the SBP officials. This visit comes at a crucial time, as the national team is deep into its training schedule. The team is scheduled to fly to Guam next week to continue their training camp, a key part of their final preparations for the global basketball tournament.
The presence of the country's basketball leadership underscores the importance of the FIBA World Cup campaign for the Philippines. This united front from the SBP, PBA, and the Gilas coaching staff demonstrates a collective commitment to achieving success on the world stage.
