Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 1) — Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes minced no words when he was asked about the disappointing performance of Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
The veteran tactician admitted he apologized to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) chairman emeritus Manny Pangilinan after failing to book a spot in the next round of the group stage.
He also mentioned that he already said sorry to his fellow countrymen for letting them down at the sport’s biggest stage.
“I’ve had numerous times. I’ve already said I’m sorry that we were not able to deliver. I take full accountability, I take full responsibility,” he said in a press conference after Gilas’ match against South Sudan on Thursday.
The Philippines absorbed its fourth setback in as many outings following an 87-68 loss to the Central African nation at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
With Japan beating Venezuela and notching its second victory in Okinawa in the other group play, Gilas is officially out of contention for the lone Asian Olympic berth in the quadrennial meet.
“We knew that this was the game (vs South Sudan) we absolutely had to win because somebody would get the wins, that’s why we’re very disappointed,” Reyes said.
“I’m not surprised Japan won, that’s why I knew this was the game we really had to absolutely get,” he added.
Reyes said he is leaving his coaching fate to SBP officials after the tournament.
“With regards to my personal future, that really is in the hands of the federation. But for me, we all know that I’m already retired and left this job several times. But when I’ve been asked to come back, I could not turn my back to the call of service for flag and country,” he said.
Gilas has one game remaining in the classification phase against China on Sept. 2 at the Big Dome.
