Guiao mulled to replace Reyes in Gilas

Coach Yeng Guiao may stay on holding the rein in the national team up to the next windows of the FIBAWorld Cup qualifiers, especially if Team Phl performs creditably in the Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The PBA board of governors deferred making a decision on the composition of Gilas Pilipinas to the September window of the FIBAWC eliminator pending the stint of the Guiao-mentored Team Phl in the Jakarta Asiad.

The board, however, reiterated its full support to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and to Gilas Pilipinas in a meeting yesterday at the PBA office in Libis, Quezon City.

“The PBA is open to lending our players to Gilas. But the board didn’t discuss a possible lineup with the SBP yet to decide on who will be the coach,” said PBA commissioner Willie Marcial.

Guiao could well be a top contender if he would be able to steer Team Phl to a good showing in the Jakarta meet.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Ricky Vargas, who is also chairman of the PBA board, has said they would be happy if Team Phl could surpass the country’s seventh-place finish in the 2014 Asiad in Incheon, South Korea.

The Nationals, however, need to make the Top Two in their grouping with China and Kazakhstan to advance to the knockout stage (Final Eight). —

Philstar.com