FORMER PBA Commissioner Noli Eala and Gilas Pilipinas assistant coach Richard Del Rosario traded heated words online following the Philippines’ crushing 105-61 loss to China that ended the defending champions’ Asian Games campaign.
Eala took aim at Gilas after the 44-point defeat, questioning the team’s mindset and suggesting that the Philippines appeared to enter the game merely trying to stay within the margin needed to advance.
“NAKAKAHIYA!” Eala posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“Gilas came into this game with a mindset that they could just LOSE, (mind you) NOT win, LOSE by 37. Where is the national pride? They lose 105-61. 44 points. Unacceptable,” he added.
Eala described the result as “A national embarrassment,” drawing a sharp response from Del Rosario.
The Gilas assistant coach pushed back against what he called assumptions about the team’s mindset, saying those inside the dugout were equally disappointed by the result but never considered playing simply to avoid elimination.
“I respect you. However, before you make wild accusations and presumptions about our mindset, make sure that you know what was said inside the dugout,” Del Rosario replied.
“We are embarrassed by the loss, same as everyone else, but we NEVER entertained the idea to just play not to lose. We play to win!”
Eala then responded to Del Rosario, saying he was willing to reconsider his conclusion if his assessment of the team’s mindset was wrong.
“If it was a wrong conclusion then I stand corrected Coach and I apologize,” Eala said.
“I know how to do that. I wonder if you guys know how to do that too.”
The exchange came shortly after China dominated the Philippines from the opening minutes, taking a 66-30 halftime lead before finishing with a 44-point victory.
Gilas entered the game needing to lose by no more than 37 points to remain in contention for a quarterfinal berth. Instead, the defending Asian Games champions were eliminated after falling to 1-2 in Group C.
The defeat brought an abrupt end to the Philippines’ title defense and triggered pointed reactions over the team’s roster, preparation and performance throughout the tournament. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
