Gilas eyes Aguilar as Malonzo’s replacement

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and head coach Tim Cone are considering veteran big man Japeth Aguilar for the upcoming FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) this July.

This move follows the injury of Jamie Malonzo, who has been part of the Gilas Pilipinas roster since the first window but is currently nursing a calf injury he sustained during a PBA game.

Cone said they are awaiting Aguilar’s confirmation on his availability for upcoming practice sessions.

“Right now, obviously, Jamie Malonzo is injured and will not play in this window, so we are looking to Japeth Aguilar again to try to come and be a part of the 12,” said Cone in an interview.

Aguilar, who served as the team captain during Gilas’ impressive first window performance several months ago, could bring much-needed experience and leadership to the squad.

Following a 38th-place finish in last year’s FIBA World Cup, the Filipino hoopers improved to a new world ranking of No. 37.

Gilas began its quest in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers last week, achieving a significant victory over Hong Kong, 94-64. They continued their strong performance by overwhelming Chinese-Taipei, 106-53, in front of their home crowd on February 25, 2024.