Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 25) — Hours before the 2023 FIBA World Cup tips off in Manila on Friday, former Gilas Pilipinas team captain Gabe Norwood and veteran Jeff Chan highlighted the importance of securing the first win when competing in an international tournament.
The two Gilas ambassadors said sealing a victory early in the competition will set the tone for the national men’s basketball team moving forward.
“I think the hardest would be the first game. I think it’s very crucial especially for us because we need at least two wins, right? So again, first game, must win for me,” Chan told reporters at the FIBA fan zone launch on Friday.
“A good start always helps,\” Norwood added. \”It builds your momentum, so chasing your first win as early as you can is important.\”
Chan cited Italy as the strongest team in Group A, while Norwood said every team in the competition is strong.
The Philippines will also be facing Angola and Dominican Republic, led by NBA star Karl Anthony Towns.
The Gilas ambassadors shared some advice to the current squad representing the country in the international basketball showcase.
“Just go out and play as hard as you can,\” Norwood said. \”At the end of the day, you had the preparation, you had the time to get ready and now you put it all together on the court and enjoy.
\”Enjoy because there’s nothing like this,\” he also said. \”You’ll never know when you will get the chance again so enjoy the whole experience.\”
“Just give your best, play with your heart,\” added Chan. \”We know naman basketball it’s a ball game so whatever happens, we can shock the world naman, eh, as long as we play hard, we play with our hearts. Just give it all. That’s what we used to do, eh.\”
