The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has now named multi-titled Tim Cone, to lead the country’s basketball team in the upcoming 19th Asian Games, which will begin on September 23 in Hangzhou, China.
The Barangay Ginebra chief tactician will bring with him, his assistant coach Richard del Rosario.
The squad will be managed by Alfrancis Chua, the San Miguel Corporation’s sports director and the Gin Kings’ governor on the PBA Board.
Cone earlier stated that he would decline a coaching position at Gilas Pilipinas if former head coach Chot Reyes stepped down, citing Reyes as a personal friend of his.
“I approached Chot, and he gave me his blessing. It embarrassed me, as I don’t want to follow Chot, but he still gave me his blessing.” Cone said during the SBP-PBA press conference.
Cone said Reyes told him that he is the most suitable person for the job.
Tim Cone was the head coach of the Gilas Pilipinas in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, therefore he knows how to handle a national team system.
This time, though, the team has two weeks to prepare for Asiad. Holdovers from the World Cup include June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, RR Pogoy, Scottie Thompson, and CJ Perez, who will lead the squad as veterans.
Multi-best import and naturalized player Justin Brownlee is expected to lead the groups, along with Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser.
Former Gilas players Terrence Romeo and Calvin Abueva were said to be seen in practice with other new faces Stanley Pringle, Mo Tautuaa, and Jason Perkins at the Philsports Arena.
Tim Cone is expected to name his final 12 soon.
Who do you think should be included in the line-up? Let us know in the comments.
