By REYNALD MAGALLON
Gilas Pilipinas begins what could be a perilous journey back to World Cup and its resolve will immediately be tested by a hungry foe in an expected hostile environment.
The Nationals gun for a winning start to their 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers campaign when they take on the lower-ranked but dangerous Guam, Friday, Nov. 28 at the Calvo Fieldhouse.
Tip-off of the clash that is deemed crucial to the overall fate of Gilas’ Olympic bid is at 5 p.m. (Manila time).
Although sitting 44 rungs ahead of its opponent, the world No. 37 Gilas isn’t being complacent against the ranked No. 81 Guam, knowing full well how the support from a home crowd could affect its performance.
“When you’re playing at home, it’s a whole different ball game. Players play differently in front of their home crowd, in their home court,” said Gilas head coach Tim Cone.
“It’s a completely different thing, and that’s what we’re going to have to overcome,” he added, citing how the crowd played a big factor in Gilas’ own win over New Zealand and Chinese Taipei’s huge win over the Nationals in Taiwan.
“Home court means something, and that’s why this Friday game is really crucial to us. We’ve got to come with our best foot forward,” stressed the veteran coach.
Of course, Gilas is banking on its chemistry and talent as it parades the same potent core from its previous run in the Asia Cup.
Justin Brownlee will be leading the charge along with Scottie Thompson, Dwight Ramos, June Mar Fajardo and Kevin Quiambao. The team will also be introducing new reinforcements in Quentin Millora-Brown and RJ Abarrientos who are both recently added to the Final 12.
Out to pull off a huge upset against them, however, are the Guamanians who will be spearheaded by a familiar face, Jericho Cruz of San Miguel.
Another Filipino-Guamanian and former PBA draft prospect Isaiah Africano is also out to strut his wares for the home team along with local stars Tai Wesley and Jonathan Galloway.
After the crucial first game of the qualifiers, Gilas will also get its turn to host Guam when they face up once more at the Blue Eagles Gym on Dec. 1.
