Gilas Pilipinas lineup 2019 released to include powerful rookies Bolick and Perez in the final magic 12. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) made the announcement on August 25.
Players who already experienced joining FIBA World Cup in 2014 in Spain are still included in the list namely Gabe Norwood, June Mar Fajardo, Andray Blatche, Japeth Aguilar, and Paul Lee.
Aside from rookies Robert Bolick and CJ Perez, among the first-timers in FIBA are Raymond Almazan, Mark Barroca, Troy Rosario, Roger Pogoy, and Kiefer Ravena who just returned after 18 months of suspension.
SBP President Al Panlilio says, “These are the 12 gallant men who will fight for flag and country in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 in China but they would not have gotten this opportunity if it were not for the sacrifices of all the players, coaches, and staff that helped along the way throughout the FIBA Asian Qualifiers.”
Gilas Pilipinas Lineup 2019-Who were cut?
Gilas Pilipinas coach Yeng Guiao told the press that choosing the final 12 is hard. “We talked about it for days. Although, of course, there were circumstances that also played into the decision-making.” he said.
Matthew Wright and Poy Erram did not make it to the cut because they are still recovering from injuries. The two players missed trainings due to their foot injuries. Wright suffered right peroneal tendon sprain while Erram had a right ankle sprain.
Tune-Up Game
Gilas Pilipinas failed to beat Adelaide 36ers in a tune-up game on August 25 at Meralco Gym in Pasig City with a final score of 75-85.
Despite Ravena returning from suspension, Gilas still fell short by 21 points to redeem themselves. The friendly match is their second game practice game before heading to Foshan, China on Thursday to start their FIBA World Cup Journey.
Gilas Pilipinas will first face Italy followed by Serbia on September 2 and Angola on September 4.