As part of their preparations for the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, Gilas Pilipinas will play a series of friendly matches against Qatar, Lebanon, and Egypt in Doha starting February 15.
The team is set to depart for Doha on February 13, using the camp as an opportunity to reintegrate AJ Edu and Jamie Malonzo, both of whom missed the previous window due to injuries.
“The basic thing is, we’re using this Doha trip as a chance to prepare, not for this immediate window because we have already qualified, but as a preparation for the FIBA Asia in August,” said Gilas head coach Tim Cone.
He also noted that the camp will help the team adjust to playing without Kai Sotto, who remains sidelined due to injury.
Gilas’ Doha Friendly Schedule (Manila Time):
- Qatar – February 15, 1:30 AM
- Lebanon – February 15, 11:00 PM
- Egypt – February 17, 1:30 AM
While Japeth Aguilar will miss the Doha camp due to personal reasons, he is expected to rejoin the squad for the February window. In his absence, Mason Amos is likely to be included in the training camp roster.
Gilas will later face Chinese Taipei and New Zealand in away games for the third window of the qualifiers. With their spot in the FIBA Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia this August already secured, the team is using these friendlies to fine-tune their strategies and player chemistry.
Stay updated on Gilas Pilipinas’ journey in the FIBA Asia Cup! 🏀💪