NO days off.
That's the case for Gilas Pilipinas Women's head coach Patrick Aquino as he spent his holidays in the States, looking for potential Filipino-heritage recruits for the national team.
The 49-year-old mentor attended a private showcase event conducted by Fil-Am Nation Select last January 2 and 3 in Orange County, California, and was able to spot potential additions to the team.
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Fil-Am Nation Select is an Alex Cabagnot-led organization that aims to connect States-based Pinoy talents with the local basketball leagues.
Aquino said he arrived in the US mid-December, before the Christmas, and had gotten to spend time with his family before he proceeded with work.
"I'm so happy that a lot of Fil-Am players want to showcase their talents to represent the country," he told SPIN Life.
From the two-day Building the Bridge event, he named a few players who stood out among the rest.
"Vanessa De Jesus from Duke, Amaya Bonner, Mai Loni Henson, [the] Molina sisters," he said.
Aquino plans to stay for another month more to continue his search. Next week, he's eyeing to run another tryout event for Gilas Women's in Chantilly, Virgnia.
"We are looking for talents that can help us in our campaign for international competitions. We love to have any talents that are willing to help us to level up more," he said.
The seasoned coach also assured the loyal supporters of the female squad that the best is yet to come. Yes, even after their momentous double gold in the recent 30th Southeast Asian Games.
"I just want to tell all Filipino fans that the future of the Philippine women's basketball is bright. Thank you for your support," he added.
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