Golden Gilas

Photo: Rappler.com

The Philippines' men's basketball team finally did it. We brought home the Gold Medal in the 2023 Asian Games, our first since 1962, and our first medal finish in basketball since 1998.

And even before we set foot on the hardcourt, we were already met with the following challenges:

A roster that was constructed and finalized with only days left before the tournament. A coach who took on the job despite having such a short turnaround time (following his predecessor's resignation) and only a handful of players available from the World Cup roster. So-called veteran sports journalists and columnists throwing salt at the team and spreading rumors of a pullout and a 'new coach' in the background.

Once in China, we won two games while losing via a blowout to eventual Gold medal match dance partners, Rondae Hollis Jefferson and the Jordan men's basketball team. There were chemistry issues, some rotation, and offensive sets that looked lacking-- obviously from a lack of preparation and time together. But the team kept pushing forward, kept hustling. There was a blown 20-point lead versus Iran. And there was the huge 20-point comeback versus hosts China.

Oh, that China match was one for the books.

Back in the fold (?)

It's been a busy off-season for the PBA these past few days, headlined of course by the great Kerby Raymundo and Dylan Ababou to Ginebra trade that sent JC Intal to B-Meg and Ronald Tubid and Reil Cervantes to Barako Bull, followed by Meralco's pick-up of Paul Artadi for Chico Lanete and Air21's (formerly Shopinas.Com) shoring-up defensively with the acquisition of Bitoy Omolon and Mark Isip.

Big Daddy Douthit to provide Air21 with veteran
savvy, championship poise and muscle

There's also the impending return of naturalized center and SMART Gilas standout Marcus Douthit, who will suit up mid-February with Air21which hopefully increases the team's chances to secure a victory in their young team's history. Right now, all Air21 really needs is a pass-first point guard who will utilize a projected line-up of RJ Jazul, Omolon, Isip and Douthit with promising frontliners Magi Sison and Elmer Espiritu ready to come off the bench. Pong Escobal has always been a favorite, but his speed has become an issue in the pros.

Either way, their chances have definitely increased and things are looking up for the Lina franchise.

But all that has been trumped by the reported re-acquisition of the Powerade franchise by San Miguel Corporation which could very well hurt the PBA on all fronts. Granted, SMC and Powerade has denied it, dismissing the news as a "non-issue," but as the old adage goes, "if there's smoke, there's sure to be fire."

There has been reports that a "super rookie" from the Powerade camp is being offered for a trade, which in turn might start a domino effect. Much like how Santa Lucia made sure to make a lot of money out of its championship roster before selling to Team MVP (instead of simply holding on to the players like Kelly Williams, Ryan Reyes, Joseph Yeo and Denok Miranda).

On a positive note, Gary David received a 3-year extension worth the max contract of P 420,000 a month-- and rightfully so. If the Powerade sale does go through, let's all pray that the Bataan Bomber goes to a title-worthy team and not be left behind as he always does.

With the success and fame being enjoyed by the league, its teams and players, what it doesn't need is a PR hit (4th SMC team in a league that already features 2 teams each for MVP and the Linas). Perhaps the PBA can look into another franchise from the amateurs to make the leap into the pros? Invitational style?