MANILA — Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas chairman emeritus Manny Pangilinan looks forward to arguably the most talented boys' under-19 squad the Philippines has ever built.
"I'm excited to see them play," Pangilinan said on Friday ahead of the Gilas Pilipinas Youth's conquest in the FIBA U19 World Cup in Heraklion, Greece starting this weekend.
Led by 7-foot-2 Kai Sotto, 6-foot-10 AJ Edu, and 6-foot-8 Geo Chiu, Gilas Youth will be fielding in its tallest lineup yet.
In his speech during the SBP National Congress at the Meralco Gym in Pasig, SBP president Al Panlilio was even elated about the height of the Gilas Youth.
"[This is the] first time in history that I saw that the strength of the Philippines was height," Panlilio said.
The addition of spitfire guards Terrence Fortea and Dalph Panopio, among others, makes the roster something to watch out further.
"Maraming magagaling dito (There are many good players here)," Pangilinan said.
Gilas Youth will begin its campaign in the World Cup against host country Greece early Sunday (Philippine Time). (PNA)
