Physical PBA basketball toughened up SMART-Gilas Pilipinas, says Salud

BA commissioner Chito Salud was in Taiwan to watch the SMART-Gilas Pilipinas national team win the 34th William Jones Cup, and he believes that the squad composed mainly of pros was well-served by the league’s move toward a more physical game. “I believe the PBA brand of basketball has toughened up our boys for international competition,” said Salud, who instituted changes to the league’s officiating policy, hoping to encourage more physical play, after taking over in 2010. “‘Di pwede lalamya-lamya. ‘Di pwede saksak lang nang saksak in the hope of getting a bailout call.” [PHL vs. USA - REPLAY VIDEO - CLICK HERE] Despite the victory, he still saw many areas for improvement for SMART-Gilas, which was competing in its first tournament under new coach Chot Reyes. “We must further strengthen and develop our mid- to long-range shooting, along with our free throws. Most important of all, dapat may poise and experience to be competitive against taller and bigger opponents,” said Salud. Nonetheless, Salud expressed his elation over the victory, which is part of the national program’s buildup to next year’s FIBA Asia Championship, which serves as qualifier to the the 2014 FIBA World Cup. “Our country has just taken a giant step toward reestablishing our rightful place among the top powers in Asia,” he said. “I am extremely happy for the boys and the fans and proud of Philippine basketball.” by InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

Next tournament for Gilas Pilipinas: 4th FIBA Asia Cup (Sept.14-22, 2012 @ Tokyo, Japan) CHAMPS! + MVP Tenorio! (via Cherry Tiosejo-Reyes)