THE Gilas Boys are all set for a tough campaign in the FIBA U17 World Cup, set to kick off with a formidable challenge against powerhouse Lithuania at Istanbul’s Sinan Erdem Dome on Saturday, June 29 (Manila time).
Faced with the daunting task of playing against the 7th-ranked team globally, the nationals are undoubtedly the underdogs as they aim to defy expectations in their 5:30 p.m. clash, hoping to make a significant impact in the 16-team tournament.
Guided by coach Josh Reyes, the team finds motivation from their senior counterparts, Gilas Pilipinas, which recently displayed resilience despite a tough 84-73 loss to Turkey in a friendly match.
The absence of star guard Kieffer Alas due to a left-knee injury presents a challenge, yet Kurt Nathan Velasquez, Joaquin Ludovice, Irus Chua, and Champ Arejola are stepping up in the Final 12 lineup.
The roster also features Elijah Williams, Cletz David Amos, Edryn Morales, Bonn Daja, Paul Diao, Jaime Gomez De Liaño, Samuel Alegre, and Noah Banal, all determined to surpass the Philippines’ 13th-place finish in the 2018 World Cup.
Following their opener against Lithuania, the Gilas juniors will confront World No. 2 Spain on June 30, followed by a match against No. 15 Puerto Rico on July 2 after a day’s rest, concluding their group stage engagements.
While no teams will exit after the group phase, Gilas aims to build a strong record to secure a favorable position and avoid tougher opponents in the crossover Round of 16.