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Thompson makes sacrifice by begging off from Gilas: "Ito ang best way ko para makatulong"

Scottie Thompson thinks he still has to learn a lot if he wants to thrive in the international level. PBA Images
By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY--For many Filipino basketball fans, begging off from national team duties, whether it's in the senior or youth level of any gender and any mode of gameplay, that is, whether it's a five-on-five or 3x3 game, does more harm than help, leading to them criticizing one player's decision to do so.

But Scottie Thompson said on Friday night that it was more of a help and not a wrongdoing.

"I think ito ang best way ko para makatulong para sa bayan," Thompson quipped.

The Ginebra guard made headlines late Monday night when it was reported that he will forgo the opportunity to be part of the Gilas Pilipinas Men pool for the FIBA World Cup.

"Nagusap kami nang masinsinan," Thompson added about how he relayed his decision to Coach Yeng Guiao.

On why he had to back out, he explained, "To give way sa mga mas deserving pa na makapaglaro at mas ready sa international stage."

He then cited the arrival of CJ Perez and Robert Bolick to the preliminary pool and the impending return of Kiefer Ravena as factors for him to give way.

While Thompson rues giving up the opportunity to represent the Philippines in the FIBA World Cup, he vows to work on his game more with his decision.

"Siguro ipo-polish ko yung offense ko and syempre mas maging confident para sa sarili ko," Thompson specifically said the facets that he will improve. "Sana soon dumating."

But he also said that he is still open to join the national team training albeit in a practice player role if deemed needed.

"Kapag may chance na kulang yung bodies sa practice, makakatulong naman ako."

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno