Mason Amos will be a pivotal member of the national team's future, but will he get the call for the 2023 FIBA World Cup?
Mason Amos had a terrific introduction for Gilas Pilipinas in the final window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. One could argue that the 18-year-old forward is one of the top performing Gilas players in the window.
Coming off the bench against Lebanon, Amos shot the lights out with a perfect 5-for-5 shooting, three from beyond the arc, for 13 points in just over eight minutes of action. Although he cooled down in a scoreless five-minute play against Jordan, Amos has already given a glimpse of the damage he can do for the Philippines.
Asked if he wants more Gilas Pilipinas opportunities, particularly the chance to suit up in the FIBA World Cup, the promising forward did not hesitate to answer yes.
"Yeah, hopefully. I'm gonna keep working," Amos said.
"I learned that the international game is more physical, a lot faster, and having to adjust."
The youngest Gilas Pilipinas standout said he will continue his work with the Ateneo Blue Eagles, where he is expected to get better under the tutelage of former national team coach Tab Baldwin.
For sure, the FIBA qualifiers won't be the last time Filipinos will witness Amos in a Pilipinas uniform.
Fans might want to see the young gun again as soon as the upcoming SEA Games too, but the sweet-shooting forward will have to commit and work for the spot because Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes has already said that there are no shoo-ins for the next tournaments.