Phl 5 begins quest vs Jordan

MANILA, Philippines - Some of the finest PBA players, who are rivals in pro play, once again join forces for Smart Gilas Pilipinas as they leave for Taipei today to compete in the 2012 Jones Cup slated Aug. 18-26.

“We’re leaving for Taipei with a one-word mindset – learning,” said coach Chot Reyes. “Hopefully, we can make the top three but the tourney is really for learning and experience for us. This is an opportunity for the players to learn to play with each other. For the first timers, this is an opportunity for them to learn international play.”

The event is part of the national team’s buildup to make it to the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain.

It’s the first international exposure for Smart Gilas II, and the Nationals start their campaign against old, familiar rival Jordan tomorrow.

It’s the very team that beat the Philippines in the semifinals of the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship in Wuhan, China.

The tournament also presents Smart Gilas II the chance to size up Iran, Lebanon, Japan and Chinese Taipei.

A South Korean club team, Chinese Taipei Team B and a US selection complete the cast in the Jones Cup, coming ahead of the fourth FIBA Asia Cup in Tokyo next month. 

Reyes is fielding in the Jones Cup naturalized player Marcus Douthit, Ranidel de Ocampo, Larry Fonacier, Sonny Thoss, LA Tenorio, Mac Baracael, Jeff Chan, Gabe Norwood, Rico Villanueva, Gary David, Sol Mercado, JayR Reyes, Fil-Am recruit Matt Rosser and PBA D-League star Garvo Lanete.

“I’ve told the guys that I’ll try a lot of combinations. I’ll give everyone the minutes,” said Reyes.

“Depending on what comes out in Taipei, we make the determination for Japan (Asia Cup). Part of the plan is fielding the guys who’re not in the Jones Cup roster,” Reyes added.

Jimmy Alapag, Kelly Williams, Jason Castro, Ryan Reyes, Jarred Dillinger and Jayvee Casio sit out the Jones Cup.

Smart Gilas I narrowly missed the semis in last Asian tourney. In the 2013 Asian joust, the Nationals just need to make the Top Three to reach the World Cup.