The draw possibilities for Gilas Pilipinas aren't as expansive as one would expect.
The FIBA World Cup 2023 draw is happening this Saturday, April 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and everyone is salivating on the prospects of Gilas Pilipinas' groupmates.
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FIBA World Cup 2023 local ambassador Ranidel de Ocampo told Gretchen Ho in News5's Frontline Pilipinas how the draw would help Gilas Pilipinas tailor its lineup and tactics, depending on their opponents.
At first glance, the entire 32-team field looks expansive. But the possibilities for the Philippine men's national basketball team have actually been narrowed down.
For one thing, the Philippines will not immediately face top teams Spain, USA, and Australia right away in the group phase. It's an advantage for Gilas Pilipinas as the group and finals phase host.
And to ensure equal distribution among the three host countries, Pots 1, 3, 5, and 7 will feed into Groups A, C, E, and G. Meanwhile, Pots 2, 4, 6, and 8 will feed into Groups B, D, F, and H.
The draw also assures Gilas Pilipinas will not be facing other Asian countries in the first round, having gone through the gamut of the regional qualifiers. That leaves the possibility of having at least one squad from the Americas and Africa, along with one or two teams from Europe.
Despite all of those stipulations, RDO had a tough time naming an ideal opponent.
"Actually wala ring mapili, lahat magagaling," he told Frontline Pilipinas on Wednesday.
"Siguro yung mga may player din na kilala," he hoped.
In the 2014 edition of the tournament, Gilas Pilipinas brought the fight to top squads Croatia, Greece, Argentina, and Puerto Rico before finally getting their first win against Senegal.
But de Ocampo remains optimistic for the Philippines, given its history.
It has become especially meaningful as he trooped around Metro Manila with the Naismith Trophy.
"Naalala ko ang pinaka-close natin nakuha yung third place. 1954 pa yata," he recalled. "May chance tayo."
"Hangga't may chance tayo at mag-tour [yung trophy] sa world, pagbalik dito 'wag na natin paalisin. Sa'tin na lang," he said, grinning.