Grieving Chot marks birthday

TOKUSHIMA, Japan – He tried to be cheerful following an easy win over India but not even that could conceal the national mentor’s grief.

Greeted by the Filipino sportswriters happy birthday before the post-game interview, national coach Chot Reyes said thanks but it’s his saddest natal day ever.

It was obvious he’s still grieving over the team’s failed Olympic bid as he turned 44 yesterday.

“This must be my saddest birthday ever but looking at the bright things, I have to count my blessings. My wife’s here, I’m here with my players, my family is okay, I have great kids, I have great friends. Who am I to complain?” said Reyes.

Cherry Reyes, Chot’s wife who flew here on her own, tried to comfort his husband, inviting him to go around downtown Tokushima Monday afternoon.

“We went around, I was thinking it might lessen his grief,” said Cherry.

Chot, however, stressed: “I’m still sad, very disappointed and very hurt, but life must go on.”

His birthday wish? “I wish we didn’t land in that group and that Greek ref didn’t call that technical foul, “ he said in jest.

Turning serious, he said: “My wish is the program (for the national team) is not a one-shot deal. I’m not saying that it should be me. All I’m saying is for the program to go on and for the Philippines to regain foothold in Asian basketball.”

Reyes’ tenure as coach of the national team ends at the close of the FIBA-Asia Championship.  –  Nelson Beltran