Al Panlilio sees final Gilas roster vs. Lebanon 'best 12 among the 13'

Al Panlilio finds Gilas' lineup against Lebanon featuring Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, and Jordan Clarkson as "the best 12."

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANDALUYONG--As expected, the announcement of Gilas Pilipinas' official lineup against Lebanon in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers was met with mixed reactions from the fans.

For some, they were puzzled why Roosevelt Adams was left out of the Final 12 when he has the length and even the solid perimeter game enough to give Lebanon a tough time.

However, for Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio, having Jamie Malonzo, Chris Newsome, Japeth Aguilar, Calvin Oftana, Scottie Thompson, Jordan Clarkson, Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena, Bobby Ray Parks, Carl Tamayo, Dwight Ramos, and Kai Sotto together in one squad is the most optimal combination for Gilas to get back at Lebanon after losing 80-95 during the FIBA Asia Cup.

"I think it's still the best 12 among the 13. I'm hopeful with the team," Panlilio said during the press conference for the FIBA World Cup on Thursday at the TV5 Media Center.

The SBP revealed the "Final 12" while the press conference which marked the start of the one-year countdown to the 2023 FIBA World Cup was ongoing.

Panlilio also believes the Adams cut can give him a chance to learn more about Coach Chot Reyes' system mainly based on the dribble drive offense.

"Roosevelt is also there to gain experience, for the coaches to see him, and how he can play with the team," Panlilio said.

However, Panlilio added that fans should not be surprised if Adams remains sidelined for Gilas' home game against Saudi Arabia on Monday night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

"Chot might keep the same 12," Panlilio further said.

However, he clarified, "It's the coach's call on Monday."

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