All-import five tests SMC-RP team

The SMC-Philippine team, which will soon embark on an Olympic berth quest, steps up its buildup as it plays the all-PBA import squad in an exhibition tiff at the Araneta Coliseum tonight.

Coach Chot Reyes and the Nationals consider the 7 p.m. encounter with the PBA imports as a good opportunity to test their mettle as they prime themselves up for the FIBA-Asia Champions Cup in Tehran, Iran.

"We’re looking forward to playing the imports because our last competition game was back on April 12," said Reyes.

"While we realize they may not have the benefit of playing together, there’s no question that they will give us problems due to their size, talent and athleticism," added Reyes, seeing a formidable rival in the all-imports team carrying the banner of Welcoat.

Coach Leo Austria promised to give the Nationals the challenge they badly need.

"We’ll take the game seriously because we intend to help the national team in its cause," said Austria.

Austria will have at his disposal playing-assistant coach Alex Compton, Rod Nealy of Ginebra, Galen Young of San Miguel Beer, J.J. Sullinger of Talk n Text, Rosell Ellis of Alaska, Marquin Chandler of Purefoods, Shawn Daniels of Air21, James Penny of Red Bull, Jamaal Williams of Sta. Lucia Realty, James Varem of Coca-Cola, and Wayland White of Welcoat.

The game will be officiated by two PBA referees and one from BARECOM, and will make use of rules used in international play, including four 10-minute quarters.

On the heels of their successful two-week stint in the United States, taking on top collegiate teams and selections from the National Basketball Development League, the Nationals are competing in the Asian Club Championship slated May 12-20 then in the SEABA men’s championship from May 24-28.

Teams are allowed to field in two imports each in the Champions Cup but the Philippines is opting not to play one so as to step up its training for the FIBA-Asia Olympic qualifier in Tokushima, Japan in July.

"Tomorrow’s game is significant as this will be the first public appearance of the national team since it was formally organized in March," said PBA commissioner Noli Eala.

"I’m sure the game will be exciting and fun as well as a good indicator of how far our team has already prepared. I hope everyone will come and watch the game and support our national team’s campaign to win basketball glory for the country," Eala added.