GILAS Pilipinas has heeded the call of urgency from coach Tab Baldwin.
The national team drew its largest turnout in practice since it resumed its weekly training three weeks ago as 15 players, including three amateur standouts, participated in training at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center on Monday night.
Fellow pool members Paul Lee, Jeff Chan, and LA Tenorio were also in attendance, but were spectators in street clothes.
Only big man Ian Sangalang and Matt Ganuelas-Rosser were not around.
College star Mac Belo also took part in practice for the first time, joining fellow invitees Kiefer Ravena and Kevin Ferrer.
San Miguel superstar June Mar Fajardo also suited up and joined the team in practice for the first time this year.
"I’m happy with the turnout and what we accomplished," Baldwin said after practice."
"They still need a little bit of pushing," he was quick to add. "They still are months away and the attitude that goes with that is still present, but I think that we are making strides."
Even Gilas 3..0 member Dondon Hontiveros paid a visit to give the team a moral boost as it prepares for the coming Manila leg of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.