Baldwin not hurrying up on final 12 lineup

TAIPEI – Even with the deadline for submission of Final 12 around the corner, Gilas Pilipinas coach Tab Baldwin is in no hurry to make his decision.

He has got an idea but he’d rather keep it to himself until they’re in Changsha, China for the team managers’ meeting on the eve of the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship.

As part of the procedure, Baldwin said they’ll comply with the FIBA Asia requirement for them to submit a list of 12 players on Tuesday.

“We’ll submit a lineup but we can change that,” said Baldwin downplaying the importance of the Sept. 8 FIBA Asia deadline.

“Maybe, we’ll just tell FIBA, but we’ll not announce it. We’ll do what we wanna do, what’s the best for the team. I’m not in a hurry to make a splash on it, no need,” he pointed out.

“We just keep this discreet and continue working together,” he added.

Certain is Moala Tautuaa will be out for as long as Andray Blatche is in. The two are Gilas Pilipinas’ options for a spot for a naturalized player.

For the 11 regular spots, Baldwin insisted: “I have some ideas but those are not for public consumption because things can change. We’re not gonna be revealing any time soon.”

But he said anyone can guess.

To many, a cinch to make it are Jayson Castro, Marc Pingris, Ranidel de Ocampo, Asi Taulava, Sonny Thoss, Terrence Romeo, Gabe Norwood, Calvin Abueva and Dondon Hontiveros, barring injuries.

A little late in preparation, Baldwin plans to bring the team in seclusion in the final week of training before proceeding to Changsha.

“It’s very well documented we’re a little late and there’s a lot of disruption, lots of injuries. We’re sort of cramming. It’s not ideal but it’s got to be done,” said Baldwin.

“When these guys were brought in, they know they’re under dogs here, and there’s no question about that. They know they have to do extra work. Most of them tired, but we still have things to polish up, things to learn,” Baldwin also said.