Black holds 'tryouts' for SEAG five

MANILA, Philippines - The battle for berths in the national basketball team competing in this year’s Southeast Asian Games begins this week with national coach Norman Black conducting a twice-a-week practice among aspirants in the 20-man pool.

“We’re holding practices every Monday and Saturday during the collegiate seasons to give the players a chance to show their commitment and dedication to the program,” said Black.

The final 12-man roster will be known in October in time for the Nov. 11-21 SEA Games in Palembang, Indonesia.

“We will use these next several months to determine who’s going to make it to the team or not. It’s practically going to be their tryout,” said Black, who steered the Ateneo Eagles to a three-peat in the UAAP last season.

Assisting Black are Glenn Capacio, Jamike Jarin and Sandy Arespacochaga.

Smart Gilas Pilipinas standouts Japeth Aguilar, Greg Slaughter and Aldrech Ramos head the pool that also includes Nico Salva, Kiefer Ravena, RR Garcia, Calvin Abueva, Isan Sangalang, Lester Alvarez, Alex Nuyles, Clark Bautista and Jeric Teng.

Smart Gilas skipper Chris Tiu remains undecided whether to join the tryouts or not.

“We don’t know yet if Chris Tiu wants to play for the SEA Games team or not, it will really be up to him,” Black said.

He added that 6-2 Fil-Am guard Chris Newsome will join the team next month.

The New Mexico Highlands University sophomore will also go through a one-year residency requirement for a chance to suit up for the Ateneo Eagles in 2013.

“Chris Newsome is arriving soon and he will have a chance to be part of the Phl team,” said Black.

He is also eyeing his godson, Ray Ray Parks Jr., son of former seven-time PBA Best Import Bobby Sr., for the team seeking no less than the gold medal in the biennial, 11-nation SEAG.