Heads Up Gilas

This weekend was a roller coaster ride for every Filipino who supports our Basketball National Team. After a win against Taipei and the lost of Iran. Majority of fans (including me) felt that everything is going well for our Gilas Pilipinas. Facing Jordan which we beat in the 2nd round of the tournament was a sign of relief. But again, that Jordan team destroyed our dreams again. THREE STRAIGHT FIBA-Asia tournaments that they eliminated us. Daghles again?! Rashiem again?! Abbas again?! Man, its already become a habit of this nation to disappoint us every 2 years. 

The saddest part of that game was when IT MATTERS most, the team played their worst game of the tournament. And I've felt bad for the team, because obviously, they don't deserve that.

Earlier, our battled SoKor for the Bronze Medal, and again, we have a heart breaking lost by just losing 2 points.

Our country finished 4th place, and that finish is the reason why we need to be happy with the success of the team. That's our best finish in the last 24 years in FIBA ASIA tournament), and finally, we can say that we are definitely back!

Barber Speak Notes:

• Marcus Douthit deserves to be a part of the Mythical 5 of the tournament.
• WE MUST RETAIN Coach Rajko.
• Ranidel was a revelation in this tournament.
• Kudos to Coach Ryan and Coach Chot.
• Thank You FIBA for allowing Marcio and Chris play after the appeal of Lebanon's Hayop este Hagop.
• It;s nice to see that the arrogant Haddadi and his team did not qualify for Olympics ( And we ranked higher than them this tourney!)
• Congrats to our players, you played well!
• Thank You Asi for represented our country for 9 years!
• Good Job Chris Tiu! Damn, one of the most underrated defensive player. 

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "