Cone rues missing pieces

MANILA, Philippines — Gilas head coach Tim Cone isn’t in the business of making excuses. That’s not his style. But in preparing for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Latvia, Cone lamented the absence of three key pieces in his lineup, resulting in specific breakdowns during the recent friendlies with Turkey and Poland.

Although Gilas lost both friendlies, Cone remained upbeat. Gilas outrebounded Turkey and Poland, shot at a higher percentage from the field and was competitive throughout. “We’re learning we can compete with these guys but that’s not enough,” he said. “We need to get over the hump and beat them.” Gilas’ real test will come against Latvia in the OQT tonight (midnight Manila time). Then, Gilas will take on Georgia tomorrow night. The back-to-back games are a challenge but Gilas is ready to battle.

Losing Scottie Thompson, AJ Edu and Jamie Malonzo to injuries was a hard hit. Gilas’ 14-man pool was reduced to 11. There were attempts to enlist replacements but it was too late to bring in reinforcements. In the end, Cone decided to stick with 11 men.

Cone pointed out three takeaways from the friendlies and each was linked to a missing piece. “Lack of familiarity with the system is causing us way too many turnovers, missing Scottie,” he said. “Trying to find consistency throughout the lineup between the first and second groups, missing AJ. Getting out and finishing in transition, missing Jamie.”

Former Gilas player LA Tenorio said the road to Paris is tough. “It’s hard,” he said. “I think we have a chance against Georgia. If we win one and another team wins two (in the group stage), we’re in the semis and if we win again, we’re in the final.”