SAMAHANG Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio said it will finish the Fiba Basketball World Cup first before deciding on the future of the Gilas Pilipinas head coaching position following the resignation of Chot Reyes.
In an interview with News5’s Martie Bautista, Panlilio said they have not acted on anything related to the decision of Reyes to step down as Gilas Pilipinas head coach after the completion of their campaign in the World Cup.
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Panlilio said the SBP is currently focused on the remaining games of the World Cup which has now entered the final round.
“We wanted to first complete the World Cup. The focus should be on the World Cup,” said Panlilio, when asked about Reyes’ decision to step down.
“Gilas has ended its campaign with a big win against China. We still have this week to run the most important phase of the tournament which is the final phase. The quarters starts tomorrow. The four teams are flying in today,” said Panlilio.
Chot Reyes revealed that he told Panlilio and vice chairman Ricky Vargas that he will step down as coach of Gilas regardless of the result of the game against China last Saturday.
“I’ve informed Mr. Panlilio and Mr. Vargas. But there’s no decision as far as I know. I don’t know about them. But before the game, I told them this is gonna be my last game already regardless of the result,” said Reyes on Saturday.
Panlilio alluded that there is indeed no decision yet on Reyes or on the Gilas Pilipinas coaching position.
It has become apparent, however, that a decision must be made since the Philippines is set to compete in the 19th Asian Games from September 23 to October 8.
“That’s the main focus for us,” said Panlilio, referring to the World Cup. “Finish that, complete that first.”
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