Reyes expects "all-out" PBA All-Star series as Gilas gears up for SEABA

Past Gilas stars like LA Tenorio will be part of three PBA selections that will take on Jio Jalalon and the rest of the Gilas pool in three special friendlies. (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Gilas coach Chot Reyes is expecting a different kind of PBA All-Star Game as the national team pool will be involved in a three-city series against the PBA All-Star selections from the three major island groups this week.

"We're expecting a competitive All-Star game," said Reyes.

Usually, an all-star game is purely about offense with the players of the opposing sides showcasing their individual talents.

But with Gilas gearing up for the SEABA Men's Championship and the FIBA Asia Cup, fhe tough defense and the physicality are expected as if it is a regular game.

"This is going to be the first game of Gilas, so I expect people will go all out," Reyes continued.

The Gilas pool will first test the mettle of the Mindanao All-Stars at the Xavier University Gym on Wednesday night.

Action will then shift to the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena for the second leg on Friday night, where Gilas will face off with the Luzon All-Stars.

Before the game, the side events will take place.

The All-Star Week will end with a showdown between Gilas and the Visayas All-Stars at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu on Sunday night.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno