Philippine five moving forward sans top players

MANILA, Philippines - With or without the top players he had in mind, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tab Baldwin has no other choice but to form the best possible lineup.

“If in his ideal list three or four players are not available we still have to move forward,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Sonny Barrios.

The Gilas lineup to the FIBA Asia Championship from Sept. 23 to Oct. 3 in Changsha, China is expected to be announced today.

Andre Blatche, the naturalized player, was scheduled to fly in last night to beef up the team.

But don’t be surprised if a handful of players like Junmar Fajardo, LA Tenorio, Marc Pingris, Japeth Aquilar, Paul Lee and Marcio Lassiter are not in.

Due to various reasons, whether due to injuries, personal and otherwise, these players, who could have formed a potent unit on the floor, have begged off.

Reports, however, indicate that basketball officials are still trying to make Fajardo change his mind.

Barrios said officials will have to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

“I’d like to think that everybody is still on board to field the strongest team,” said the former PBA commissioner.

He refused to name names as to who among those that are willing and available will make it to the team.

Today marks the first official practice for the China-bound Gilas lineup, and among those who are expected to show up are Jason Castro, Gabe Norwood, Calvin Abueva and Terrence Romeo.

Then there are old hands Dondon Hontiveros and Asi Taulava then Sonny Thoss and JC Intal.

It’s Baldwin’s call.

“Once we name the coach we live and die with the coach. The training, the coaching and the formation of the lineup is up to him,” said Barrios.

“And then management supports him. Having said that he (Baldwin) needs to deal with the cards dealt to him,” he added.

“That’s the reality,” Barrios added.