Calvin Oftana has been called up to rejoin Gilas Pilipinas for the Asian Games in Japan, marking a significant moment as he is the only returning player from the previous championship-winning team.
Oftana's Role in Gilas' Strategy
Calvin was always on the list to play, but we’re uncertain of his health status.
Tim Cone, Gilas Pilipinas Coach
- Oftana's inclusion addresses gaps left by injuries to other players.
- His familiarity with the team's system is expected to enhance performance.
The decision to include Oftana comes after concerns regarding his injuries, which previously sidelined him from the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Coach Tim Cone remarked on the uncertainty surrounding Oftana's health, stating that it had initially delayed the final roster decision.
However, with recent participation in TNT's practices, his fitness has improved, allowing him to join the squad just in time for Gilas' opener against Bahrain. This comeback is vital for the team as it seeks to retain the gold medal they won three years ago in Hangzhou.
Gilas Pilipinas has assembled a roster of 11 PBA players, including notable names like Robert Bolick and Adrian Nocum, while Justin Brownlee, the originally expected naturalized player, has been ruled out due to injury.
The team faced a tough exhibition against South Korea, suffering an average defeat of 26.5 points. This highlighted the need for experienced players like Oftana, who has participated in 14 FIBA games under Cone's leadership.
As the only holdover from the championship squad, Oftana's experience and adaptability will be crucial as the team adjusts to a new lineup and aims to reclaim its status in the Asian Games.