CHANGSHA – The Philippine Basketball Association is ready and willing to once again re-adjust its calendar to give way to Gilas Pilipinas’ participation in either the Olympics or even just the Olympic World Qualifier next year.
PBA top officials formed part of the Phl gallery that stood as witnesses to Gilas’ rousing run on the way to a second straight FIBA Asia Championship finale.
Despite the loss, the PBA bosses believed coach Tab Baldwin and his troops have achieved a feat that made the nation proud.
“These people should be treated as heroes. I think the plan is to honor these people. We’re very happy we’re able to come and witness something like this,” said PBA commissioner Chito Narvasa.
“(The country has gained) back-to-back FIBA Asia Championship finals. The glory years of Philippine basketball is back,” said league board chairman Robert Non.
“Poised. Gritty. Resilient. Mature. Many words can be used to describe our team and its performance but for me these four stand out,” said league president Chito Salud, adding he attributed it to right coaching and right blend of players.