Gilas Pilipinas is turning up the intensity in training as it prepares for two crucial games in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The national team continues to grind through its training camp at the SMC practice facility in Pasig City despite the heavy rains, with the players working to sharpen their conditioning, execution, and team chemistry.
Adding firepower to the lineup is the return of 7-foot-3 center Kai Sotto, who has rejoined the squad after missing the final qualifying window in February.
Sotto’s return gives Gilas a major boost in the paint, while also giving the team more time to rebuild chemistry ahead of the crucial window.
Gilas enters the second round sitting fifth in Group E with a 2-and-4 record, tied with Syria.
Australia currently leads the group with a perfect 6-and-0 slate, while Iran and Jordan are tied at 5-and-1.
New Zealand follows in fourth with a 4-and-2 record.
Gilas Pilipinas will face Jordan on August 28 before taking on Iran on August 30.
Only the top three teams in the group will advance to the World Cup proper.
(Photo Courtesy: Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas)
