TWO of Shanghai Sharks’ top three players failed to suit up in the Philippines-China Friendship Basketball Games against Gilas Pilipinas Monday night due to diarrhea.
Through team interpreter Guo Weisheng, coach Wang Qun said seasoned guard Liu Wei, a many-time Olympian and veteran of three FIBA-World Basketball Championships, missed the game along with shooting guard Liu Ziqui owing to a bum stomach.
“Both had diarrhea today so they couldn’t play, but possibly tomorrow (Tuesday). But we still have to get the doctor’s permission,” Wang told mediamen after the Sharks bowed to a run-and-gun Gilas squad, 72-80, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Sharks wind up their two-game exhibition here against the PBA Selection on Tuesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Without the two Lius, the Sharks struggled executing their plays as they were left to rely on 6-foot-10 forward/center Zhang Zhaoxu, Meng Lingyuan, and Zhang Yuan.
“Sayang, people wanted to see Liu Wei play,” said Gilas coach Chot Reyes after the game.
“We were looking forward to playing against Liu Wei. They (Sharks) had a difficult time to start precisely because they missed Liu Wei,” he added.
Zhang led the Sharks with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and five blocks in 29 minutes of action.
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