A rejuvenated CJ Perez might play a key position for Gilas. —FIBA PHOTO
CJ Perez barely noticed motion within the Fiba (Worldwide Basketball Federation) World Cup, however the spitfire guard hardly sees that as a motive to not heed one other name from the Gilas Pilipinas program.
Certainly one of 4 late Philippine Basketball Affiliation standouts tapped by interim administration as contingency measures for the nineteenth Asian Video games, Perez reduce quick his trip to hitch the coaching squad throughout its quick camp at Encourage Sports activities Academy in Laguna.
“I do know all of us get drained, however that is for the nation,” he advised the Inquirer in Filipino when requested about swiftly rejoining this system regardless of having spent months getting ready for the World Cup and never getting that point on the ground.
“If you concentrate on it, what our cops and troopers do is tougher. Us athletes, we’re representing the nation by enjoying basketball—a recreation all of us love. So, what’s to not like?”
The San Miguel guard performed solely three video games in the course of the Philippines’ five-game homestand within the world showcase—the least for any participant within the squad.
Perez mentioned that the quick break he had together with his spouse and two younger daughters was sufficient to replenish his bucket of recollections and extra importantly, rejuvenate his physique.
“That break, regardless of how quick it was, I feel was sufficient for me. I do know I’ll be doing a little kind of catching up, however I’ve been with coach Tim (Cone) in the course of the World Cup, so I’m not that fearful.”
Arvin Tolentino, additionally one of many last-minute additions for the Hangzhou showcase, can also be his call-up the identical means.
A member of the gold-reclaiming Southeast Asian Video games squad however a conspicuous absentee within the 21-man pool recognized for the World Cup, Tolentino didn’t need to assume twice about exhibiting up for coaching—regardless of how late the discover got here.
“For me, at any time when I’m obtainable, I’ll all the time select to symbolize the Philippines. And if I’m not known as up, I be certain that to help the group. Now that I’m again, I promise to present my 100%,” he mentioned.
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“I’m a aggressive man. I prefer to set the bar excessive for myself so I’m going to present my hundred p.c to have the ability to contribute to this group nonetheless the group wants.” INQ