CJ PEREZ has shifted his focus to Gilas Pilipinas just days after winning individual and team silverware at the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup.
Perez had so little time to rest before reporting to Gilas training camp at the Inspire Sports Academy two days after San Miguel dispatched Magnolia in six games in the PBA Finals last Wednesday.
READ Why Panlilio never had any doubt Cone is right man for Gilas job
“After nung PBA, talagang change mindset agad para sa Gilas,” said Perez on Monday. “Nag-relax lang ng two days. Siyempre, nandito na tayo para sa bayan.”
Perez had a Commissioner’s Cup to remember. Aside from San Miguel winning the championship, Perez accomplished a rare treble by winning the Best Player of the Conference and the Finals MVP awards as well.
Perez doesn’t mind the short break, saying he can take a proper rest eventually since San Miguel management will be giving their players some time off before returning to club duty for the Philippine Cup.
“Konti lang (pahinga). Darating din ‘yan,” said Perez in a separate interview on the day San Miguel captured the Commissioner’s Cup crown. “Pagbalik, may all-Filipino na.”
“Trabaho natin ito. Kung anong opportunity ang dumating, iga-grab talaga. Nandito tayo para mag-trabaho. ‘Yun ang binibigay eh. Binibigyan naman kami ng San Miguel management ng pahinga tapos trabaho uli,” Perez said.
Even with an already busy schedule, Perez said he never hesitated once he got the call to return to Gilas and be part of a four-year program that coach Tim Cone has put in place.
No one says no to Cone
“Walang nag-hindi. Lahat kami nag-oo. Sabi naman ni coach Tim, kung may mag-hindi, may options naman na nakalinya,” said Perez.
Perez said he supports the long-term program of Cone, hoping that the members of the team would be as healthy as possible in order to see their full potential.
“Hopefully, maging healthy lang lahat through the process ng Gilas. ‘Yun ang pinaka-importante. ‘Yung mga Japan boys, sila Kuya June Mar, kung healthy all throughout, magandang process siya.
"Mas mabubuo talaga ‘yung sistema at ‘yung chemistry,” said Perez.
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