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A rejuvenated CJ Perez could play a key role for Gilas. —FIBA PHOTO
CJ Perez hardly played at the Fiba (International Basketball Federation) World Cup, but the spitfire guard hardly sees that as a reason not to heed another call from the Gilas Pilipinas program.
One of four Philippine Basketball Association standouts tapped by interim management as a stopgap measure for the 19th Asian Games, Perez cut short his vacation to join the training squad during their short camp at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna.
“I know we’re all getting tired, but this is for the country,” he told the Inquirer in Filipino when asked if he could rejoin the program soon despite spending months preparing for the World Cup and that time had not been given to the floor.
“If you think about it, what our officers and soldiers do is harder. We athletes, we represent the country by playing basketball – a game we all love. So, what’s not to like?”
The San Miguel guard played just three games during the Philippines’ five-match homestand in the global showcase – the fewest for any player in the squad.
Perez said the short break he had with his wife and two young daughters was enough to replenish his bucket of memories and, more importantly, rejuvenate his body.
“That break, as short as it was, I think was enough for me. “I know I’m going to catch up, but I’ve been with coach Tim (Cone) during the World Cup, so I’m not too worried.”
Arvin Tolentino, also one of the last-minute additions for the Hangzhou showcase, views his call the same way.
A member of the gold-winning squad of the Southeast Asian Games, but a notable absentee from the 21-man pool designated for the World Cup, Tolentino didn’t have to think twice about turning up for training – no matter what time the message came.
“For me, whenever I am available, I will always choose to represent the Philippines. And if I don’t get called up, I make sure I support the team. Now that I am back, I promise to give 100 percent,” he said.
“I’m a competitive guy. I like to set the bar high for myself, so I’m going to give 100 percent to be able to contribute to this team, in the way that the team needs.” INQ