I'm more than excited when I've learned that their goal for organizing this national unit is because of the 2012 London Olympics. They've competed in different international leagues as well as local leagues in preparation for the Olympics.
September of this year is the most awaited month for the Gilas team. This is where they can show their hard work, discipline, experience and teamwork for the past 3 years in preparation for the Olympic qualifiers via the FIBA Asia 2011.
The tournament started last September 15, 2011 and the Philippines was placed in Group D with China, UAE, Bahrain. We've lost to China in the 1st round of elimination but we won over UAE and Bahrain to assure us of a spot for the 2nd round of elimination. For the next round, we were with Japan, Jordan and Syria in Group F. Luckily, we've won all our games to secure a spot for the quarterfinals. Chinese Taipei lost to Smart Gilas in the quarterfinal round and we've been assured of a spot for the semifinals round against Jordan. Truly, our national team gave it all to prove to our counterparts in Asia that we've mean serious business. Unfortunately, just earlier, we've bowed down to Jordan and lost the chance to play on the finals.
After 2 and a half decade, we've clinched the semis and proved our worth. Definitely, there is a future for the Philippine basketball. We just need to work harder and play smarter the next time.
I salute the Smart Gilas national team for doing well in FIBA Asia 2011. We won't be playing for the finals but what the hell, there is still a wildcard round. We just need to place third, that is if Korea will let us. It's another battle for Filipinos tomorrow but I'm willing to support and cheer them all the way...
Note: Images came from http://www.fibaasia.net/UserFiles and http://www.smartgilasbasketball.com. No copyright infringement intended.
