GILAS Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes said he was no longer surprised that Angola played a competitive game against Italy before falling to the Group A favorite in the 2023 Fiba Basketball World Cup.
The Philippines tries to keep its ambitious campaign going on Sunday night against an Angolan team that lost to Italy, 81-67, during the World Cup opener, but only after giving the Azzurri all they could handle for three quarters.
READ: Angola gives Italy all it could handle
“Malakas ‘yung Angola,” said Reyes following Saturday night’s practice at Philsports Arena. “I’ve always thought that Angola is a very high-quality, top team."
Aside from court time in practice, Gilas also spent time watching game footages of Angola in preparation for the must-win game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“We are not overlooking them at all. We are really, really preparing. Even before last night’s game, whatever happened in last night’s game, we are in for a battle.”
Gilas also took the time to review the video of its game against Dominican Republic which it lost, 87-81, despite a solid showing all game long.
Jordan Clarkson fouled out after scoring 28 points, leaving Gilas without its best scorer.
“First of all, we’ve talked about it and looked at the video. Secondly, we did some stuff in our offense to be able to counter their defense,” said Reyes.
Defense will definitely be of major importance after Angola got 19 points from Childe Dundao and 13 points from NBA player Bruno Fernando.
“We have to make sure to stay in front of those guys especially Childe. He is whippet-quick so that’s going to be a challenge,” said Reyes.
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