PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial appealed for understanding and support for Gilas Pilipinas following its 105-61 defeat to China in the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.
A day after the 44-point setback, Marcial admitted he was still affected by the result, saying the loss was difficult not only for the team but also for those who witnessed the players’ struggles.
“Masakit para sa akin to see that happen. Sobrang sakit at ganun din sa mga players,” Marcial said.
He recalled the somber atmosphere inside the Gilas locker room after the game, describing how the players sat with their heads down following China’s dominant performance.
“There was no crying, pero lahat nakatungo. Halos ayaw ko rin silang tignan, masakit eh,” he said.
Despite the outcome, Marcial stood by the players and recognized the sacrifices they made to represent the country.
“Nakakaawa kasi sila and I salute them for the sacrifices they made and their willingness to serve the country. So nagpapasalamat pa rin ako sa kanila nang husto,” he said.
Marcial also pointed out the size and shooting ability of the Chinese team, which made it difficult for Gilas to keep pace.
“Pero ano magagawa ng mga players natin, ang tatangkad ng mga Chinese players ngayon, mga shooters pa,” he said.
He added that China came fully prepared for the matchup.
“Talagang pinaghandaan tayo nang husto ng China,” Marcial said.
With the team set to return home on Wednesday, Marcial asked critics to refrain from further attacking the players on social media, reminding the public that they also have families who are affected by the criticism.
Marcial also questioned the timing of the Asian Games in relation to the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, saying the national team could have benefited from having the qualifiers first.
“Sayang nga dapat mas nauna iyung window ng FIBA World Cup Qualifiers kaysa sa Asian Games,” he said. “Sana hindi ganito. Iba talaga kapag walang naturalized players.”
The Philippines entered the Asian Games without a naturalized player and finished the group stage with a 1-2 record, missing out on the quarterfinals.
Marcial noted that even Bahrain, which had four naturalized players on its roster, also suffered a heavy defeat to China. (Adrian Co)
