Gilas Pilipinas Prepares for Tough Match Against Angola in FIBA World Cup
Gilas Pilipinas, the Philippine national basketball team, is gearing up for their next game in the FIBA World Cup against Angola. While Angola may not have the same level of skill and NBA star power as their previous opponents, Gilas head coach Chot Reyes knows that they should not take them lightly, especially when it comes to their defense. The game is set to take place on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Reyes emphasized the importance of coping with Angola’s defensive pressure and imposing their own game on the opponent. In their previous game against the Dominican Republic, Gilas struggled with turnovers and offensive rebounds, which they hope to clean up in order to secure a win and keep their hopes for an outright spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics alive.
Both teams are eager to bounce back from their previous losses. Childe Dundão, the smallest member of Angola’s squad, remains confident despite their loss to Italy, stating that they will compete against the Philippines with determination.
For Gilas, defeating Angola not only gives them their first win in the World Cup but also serves as redemption for their previous loss to the African team in the 2019 tournament. The memory of that defeat still lingers for players like CJ Perez and Kiefer Ravena. However, their main focus is securing an Olympic ticket among the Asian teams.
Despite the challenges they faced in their game against the Dominican Republic, Jordan Clarkson, Gilas’ naturalized player, remains optimistic. He believes that the team fought hard and with a better finish, they can secure a victory in their upcoming game.
Gilas Pilipinas is determined to bounce back and show their true potential in the FIBA World Cup. The game against Angola will be a crucial test for the team as they aim to keep their Olympic dreams alive.
