The Philippine men’s basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, the second runner-up of the FIBA Asia 2013 Championship is eyeing for a spot in the second round of the FIBA World Cup 2014 slated on August 30 to September 14 to be held in six major cities in Spain.
Gilas Pilipinas coach, Chot Reyes stated that getting to the second round is their goal in Spain but it depends on the results of the draw, the FIBA World Cup will feature a total of 24 teams from around the world. Team USA, and host team already secured their spot in FIBA added with the Asian qualifiers, Iran, Philippines and South Korea.
For the very first time in 35 years, the country will be competing in the world’s most prestigious basketball tournament, the FIBA World Cup. PBA stars Jimmy Alapag, Jayson Castro, LA Tenorio, Gary David, Jeff Chan, Larry Fonacier, Gabe Norwood, Ranidel de Ocampo, Marc Pingris, Japeth Aguilar, Junmar Fajardo and naturalized player Marcus Douthit made up the triumphant Philippines entry after their successful conquest of South Korea in the semis of FIBA Asia 2013.
Meanwhile Reyes was also asked of the possibility of acquiring two or three naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas as what the solons are planning but according to Reyes he is doubtful with whoever will pay for their salaries, the year round while working for Gilas Pilipinas.
According to some sports insider, the lone naturalized player of Gilas, Marcus Douthit is being paid $30,000 (P1.29 million) a month on top of his allowance for apartment and his driver.
Chot Reyes (–foul word(s) removed–)ured the Filipino fans that in their participation in FIBA World Cup, Gilas Pilipinas will not be vacationers in Spain as they will play their best basketball games against the world’s best basketball teams and players. The 24 World Cup participants will be divided into four groups. Each team plays a minimum of 5 games playing against each team in their groups. The top 4 will advanced to the knockout stage.
The Philippines has only been to four world championships, capturing the bronze during the 1954 games in Brazil. Basketball legend Caloy Loyzaga bannered the Team Philippines and ended up as member of the Mythical Five. The Filipinos finished eighth out of 13 competing teams in 1959, 13th out of 14 in 1974 and eighth as the host team in 1978.