MANILA, Philippines – Gilas team captain Jimmy Alapag paid tribute to Chot Reyes shortly after the embattled coach announced his decision to forego his chance to handle the national team again.
Alapag and Reyes, whose player-coach relationship date back to as far as the 2007 Tokushima FIBA Asia Men’s Championship, have been the closest in the team.
Alapag, who retired from international play after their ill-fated Asiad campaign, posted a photo of him and Reyes on his Instagram account with a long and heartfelt message of support.
“To my coach, friend and mentor @coachot, THANK YOU for all the memories during our journey with Gilas together. From our struggles in Tokushima and Wuhan, to our triumphs here in Manila and Spain, I wouldn't trade my National Team experience for anything,” Alapag said.
I value all the lessons I learned from you, both on and off the court. You challenged me to be the best leader and basketball player I could be, and I know because of that I grew as a man as well. I'd go to battle with you anytime Coach. Wish you all the best in whatever lies ahead in the future... #GilasPilipinas #TheCaptain #LabanPilipinas,” Alapag added.
It was Alapag who first came forward to defend Reyes after he was heavily criticized for their dismal finish in the Asian Games following great runs in the FIBA Asia and the World Cup.
Alapag earlier said that he already had initial talks with Reyes for his possible inclusion in the next national team as part of the coaching staff. But that will now depend on whoever will succeed Reyes as Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is about to start its search for a new coach.