GILAS Pilipinas is bracing for a different challenge in its Asian Games opener as Bahrain brings four naturalized players into its lineup, including former NBA forward JaKarr Sampson.
Head coach Tim Cone said the Philippine coaching staff is aware of Bahrain’s reinforcements and has made the necessary adjustments ahead of their Group C clash today.
“We are aware of the additions of the Bahrain team and are preparing for them,” Cone said in a Viber message to Fastbreak.
Sampson headlines Bahrain’s naturalized group. The 33-year-old forward has NBA experience with the Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers.
His presence gives Bahrain a proven frontcourt option and adds another layer to the challenge facing the defending Asian Games champions.
Gilas will enter the tournament without Justin Brownlee, who remains in the United States while recovering from injuries. Calvin Oftana was named the team’s 12th and final player in place of Brownlee.
The Philippines is also coming off two difficult tuneup games against South Korea, losing 81-55 and 69-42 in Suwon.
With Brownlee unavailable, Gilas will lean on its all-Filipino core as it seeks to start its title defense on a winning note.
After Bahrain, Gilas will then face Kazakhstan at 6 p.m. on Sept. 12 before wrapping up the Group C preliminary round against China at noon on Sept. 14. (Adrian Co)
