Long-term program a must for Nationals

TIANJIN – For coach Yeng Guiao, it’s better for the PBA to put in place a continuing program for the national team, and believes the pro league should never turn its back on flag and country when it comes to international competitions.

“Yes, we have the RP Smart Gilas team. But I believe the best players in our country are still in the PBA and, for sure, the national federation would keep coming back, knocking on the PBA’s door,” said Guiao.

“The PBA shouldn’t say no, otherwise the next time they compete again in international competition, they’re back to zero,” Guiao said.

Guiao’s suggestion is for the PBA to maintain the national team and make the most out of it. He said other coaches like Jong Uichico and Chot Reyes have the same thing in mind.

Guiao has voiced out his opinion in an informal talk with Sta. Lucia top official Buddy Encarnado who said he would discuss the mentor’s proposal with the PBA board.

The PBA’s agreement with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is for the pro league to represent the country for the last time in this Asian meet, then the Smart Gilas developmental team would take over. Smart Gilas is now preparing for the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship which is the qualifier for the 2012 Olympics.

“I don’t think the Gilas players would peak in three years. Do you think after three years they can beat Korea, the Middle East teams and the other powers? For sure, the federation would go back to the PBA and ask for help, and the PBA shouldn’t say no,” Guiao said.

He stressed he’s not on this to keep the coaching job since he would soon immersed himself in Pampanga politics, running for governor in the coming elections.

Guiao is suggesting the PBA to come up with a program that will form a selection and have it practice together in-between conferences or seasons and represent the country when needed.

“In doing so, we won’t be adjusting to international play,” said Guiao, “We cannot go on selling the idea that we are the best in Asia when every time we go out, we’re beaten,” Guiao said.

He said the Philippines’ recent losses in the international arena is due mainly to the absence of a program geared toward future competition, favoring a system that hastily forms a team virtually starting from scratch.

“The next time you want to compete in an international competition, you’re back to zero. You can’t use the experience you’ve got here. So, you’ll start training again. You can’t accumulate knowledge and progress continuously,” he said.

“We don’t need to touch the PBA schedule. During break, let’s go out and play abroad. In one or two years, let’s learn the system outside. The experience can only make the PBA players better and more attuned to international play and will also help improve the quality of play in the PBA,” he maintained.