Uichico upbeat on posting first win vs Thais

Coach Jong Uichico would rather face Thailand later in the Southeast Asian Games. But it’s the card he was dealt.

“I’d rather not (face them early),” the longtime national team tactician said shortly after the SEAGbound Gilas squad defeated the NU Bulldogs in their last tune-up game.

“[I’d] rather (see the team) progress as the tournament goes on. But that’s the draw,” he added.

“If we probably had more time to practice, then yes. But that’s the draw. The FIBA Asia had the same (circumstance) — they played China right away. They were able to win and we’re in the next round. We can do it din naman,” the 55-year-old Uichico said.

Gilas will be opening their bid to retain the SEA Games crown against Thailand — who once gave the Nationals a cardiac climb en route to the gold medal game. Almond Vosotros and Kiefer Ravena figured as the heroes of that 80-75 victory.

“We're improving naman day to day. We're not really 100 percent, but hopefully in the next two days, we can get there in time for Sunday's game,” Uichico offered.

“(Thailand is) tougher with Tyler Lamb. Now they have a legit scorer that can put up points on the board. They will give us some things to think about,” he added.

Lamb is one of the highly touted names that saw action in the Asean Basketball League (ABL). He played for the Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions who were eventually crowned champions.—