TROY Rosario just couldn’t believe he’ll be back this quick and get to suit up anew for Gilas Pilipinas in the Fiba World Cup qualifiers.
Rosario was named by coach Chot Reyes as part of his 12-man roster for its game against Japan on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
And to think he didn’t look like he was capable of coming back this early in the aftermath of the nasty fall he suffered during TnT Katropa’s PBA Philippine Cup game against Phoenix almost three weeks ago.
“Siyempre masaya kasi after nung nangyari sa akin, eto nakabalik pa ako,” said the TnT big man on Saturday after getting his first full practice with the national team.
“Binigyan na rin ako ng clearance ng doctor, so anytime puwede na akong maglaro.”
Rosario already rejoined Gilas in practice while it was still preparing for its game against powerhouse Australia in the second window of the tournament.
Reyes however, played it coy and didn’t insert him as part of the team that travelled to Melbourne and lost to the Boomers, 84-68, last Thursday.
So far, so good, Rosario said he’s getting back in playing shape again.
“Actually bago pa sila umalis (for Australia), wala na akong nararamdaman,” he said. “Pero gusto lang nila na manigurado na wala ng mangyayari na masama.”
Rosario’s length and size should help Gilas match-up with Japan’s big men, especially after the national team was crushed on the boards by the Boomers during their game.
He played for Gilas opposite the Japanese during their meeting in the first window.