The impressive win of Gilas Pilipinas against Saudi Arabia in the Asian Qualifiers for the 2023 FIBA World Cup on Monday gives the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) confidence that the rejuvenated Gilas program is right on course and the 20,000 strong crowd at the MOA something to cheer about.
But as the Gilas team, highlighted by NBA player Jordan Clarkson, steamrolled the Saudis 84-46, to booming cheers from the crowd, Clarkson also admitted being bothered by the hatred shown to Gilas coach Chot Reyes every time his image was flashed on the arena’s screens.
In a tweet, SBP chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan joined the Gilas Pilipinas players in appealing for support for Reyes. “Nice game tonight, Gilas. Thank you. Sad to hear reaction of OUR crowd to Coach Chot,” he wrote in his Twitter account.
The long-time basketball and sports patron echoed the words of Gilas stalwart Dwight Ramos, who asked his countrymen to rally behind the entire squad. “Dwight put it well – grateful indeed for your support but pls support all of us. Amen,” Pangilinan said.
Ramos thanked Filipinos for their love during the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers home game but stressed he would appreciate it if they would spare Reyes the vitriol.
Kai Sotto said the harsh treatment Reyes got from fans gave him motivation to win the game while Clarkson went to the extent of using expletives in describing the Reyes bashing as he urged for a change in behavior.
Filipino basketball fans are among the most passionate in the world and often think they know better than the coach and management. Supporting our team in an international competition only when its winning or choosing which team members to cheer for and booing the rest is ultimately not good for a team like Gilas Pilipinas that already faces an uphill battle in its quest to do well in an international basketball tournament.
Filipino fans may want to listen to the players who are putting in the hard work and playing for the country, and unconditionally support our national team instead of holding it back from its maximum potential by being toxic supporters.*
