Tim Cone Lauds Justine Baltazar's Dynamic Skills in Gilas Pilipinas Practice Sessions
Veteran basketball coach Tim Cone has openly expressed his admiration for the impressive performance displayed by Justine Baltazar during the practice games for Gilas Pilipinas. These sessions are part of the preparations for the upcoming second window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, where the national team is gearing up for crucial matches.
Cone's Praise for the Former Converge Top Pick
Tim Cone specifically highlighted the abilities of Baltazar, who was the former number one overall pick for Converge and has been included in the Gilas Pilipinas training pool. In his comments, Cone emphasized the value of versatility in a player, which he believes Baltazar exemplifies perfectly.
"I mean that's exactly what we're looking forward to in the national team, that ability that a player can do various things," Cone stated. "He can step out, he can step in, he can take on a mismatch, he can block shots around the basket, he's a dynamic rebounder. He just has a lot of versatility. So that's what we're looking for," he added, underscoring the multifaceted skills that make Baltazar a standout candidate.
Uncertainty Over Final Roster Inclusion
Despite the high praise, it remains uncertain whether Justine Baltazar will secure a spot in the final 12-player lineup for Gilas Pilipinas in the second window qualifiers. The team is set to face formidable opponents, including powerhouses New Zealand on February 26 and Australia on March 1. This decision will be crucial as the coaching staff evaluates players based on their practice performances and overall fit for the team's strategy.
The upcoming matches are pivotal for the Philippines' campaign in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, and the inclusion of versatile players like Baltazar could play a significant role in enhancing the team's competitiveness against top-tier international teams.
