MANILA, Philippines – As the national team began its training camp in anticipation of the second window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Gilas Pilipinas has formally returned to work mode. The Philippine team has begun training in preparation for what is expected to be their most difficult test yet in Group A, concentrating on conditioning, chemistry, and tactical modifications with less than two weeks to go before their eagerly awaited matches.

The national team began a rigorous preparation period when they regrouped for training at the Upper Deck Sports Center after a two-month hiatus. The players and coaching staff are aware that the next window will be a pivotal one since they will be playing back-to-back matches against two of the most formidable opponents in the region. The Mall of Asia Arena will host the national team’s matches against Australia on February 26 and New Zealand on March 1. For the Filipinos, who want to keep their dominant position in the group, these games are considered as crucial benchmarks.

With identical 2-0 records after strong wins over Guam in the first window, Gilas and Australia currently share the early lead in Group A. With a road triumph of 87-46 and a home victory of 95-71, the Philippines overwhelmed Guam and demonstrated remarkable unity and balance. But with both sides renowned for their physicality, depth, and global experience, the forthcoming matches against Australia and New Zealand mark a major uptick in competition.

The coaching staff faces a number of difficulties, including the key players’ delayed arrival. A number of the core rotation’s members are from foreign leagues and weren’t available for the first few training sessions. Carl Tamayo and Kevin Quiambao will be joining from the Korean Basketball League, while AJ Edu, Dwight Ramos, and Quentin Millora-Brown will be returning from the Japan B. League. It is anticipated that their addition will strengthen the team by providing depth and versatility at several places.

Due to a prior ACL injury, young big player Kai Sotto has been recommended to concentrate on strengthening and rehabilitation, hence he will not be included in the team for this window. The choice to exclude Sotto from this window highlights the program’s long-term approach to player development and health, even if he has already resumed playing in the Japan B. League.

Coach Tim Cone has started making arrangements with an all-PBA team in the meantime. Early chemistry and system execution have been the focus of veteran and exceptional players such June Mar Fajardo, CJ Perez, Calvin Oftana, Chris Newsome, Scottie Thompson, RJ Abarrientos, and naturalized player Justin Brownlee. This group gives the club a strong base by combining defensive versatility, scoring prowess, and experience.

Brownlee’s presence provides stability and scoring power on the wing, while Fajardo continues to be a vital pillar for the national team, providing leadership and interior dominance. Thompson and Abarrientos contribute playmaking and enthusiasm in the backcourt, while Perez and Oftana are anticipated to supply perimeter firepower. The coaching staff has more options when playing against the athletic wings of Australia and New Zealand thanks to Newsome’s two-way skill.

Many people believe that the next window will be crucial for Gilas Pilipinas. With teams that regularly feature NBA and elite foreign league players, Australia has long been a dominant force in Asian basketball. In contrast, New Zealand is a formidable opponent for any team in the area due to their physical style and methodical approach. Gilas’ depth, readiness, and fortitude will be put to the test when they play these two teams back-to-back.

These matches will influence the course of the national team’s qualifying campaign in addition to the immediate outcomes. For both seasoned players and new ones, strong performances against elite opponents can increase self-confidence, fortify team identity, and offer invaluable experience. On the other hand, difficulties could highlight areas that require work prior to the qualifiers’ subsequent stages.

In the last days of preparation, coach Tim Cone and his staff are anticipated to place a strong emphasis on ball movement, defensive discipline, and fundamentals. Once players from outside come, the club has to immediately create clear roles and incorporate everyone into the system because practice time is limited. To compete with more seasoned international programs, Gilas will need to be able to communicate, work well with others, and be flexible.