By ADRIAN STEWART CO
The Angola Black Antelopes knew that they were up for a challenge when they face host Gilas Pilipinas in the group stage of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday night, August 27.
Black Antelopes head coach Pep Claros said the Philippine men’s basketball team poses a huge challenge due to its athletic and excellent shooters, led by Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson.
In the last encounter between the two teams during the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China, the Black Antelopes emerged as the winner over Gilas Pilipinas in overtime, 84-81.
“Philippines is a very athletic team compared to the past. They have a lot of guys who can shoot, excellent shooters. They also have Clarkson who will undoubtedly contribute around 20 points and more,” Claros said.
“They can shoot. He’s a scorer. And they’ll be playing at home with strong support. It’s gonna be a tough game, but it’s also tough for them. I agree it’s gonna be an exciting game to watch,” the Spanish mentor added.
Bannering the world’s no. 41 Black Antelopes squad is Atlanta Hawks center Bruno Fernando along with experienced local players Jilson Bango, Silvio Sousa Still and Childe Dundao.
Claros said a victory against either of their groupmates, Gilas Pilipinas, the Dominican Republic and Italy, can already be considered an achievement, since they are the lowest ranked team in the group.
“Just getting a win in the group stage will be a significant achievement for Angola. Our backs are against the wall, against Italy, Philippines, and Dominican Republic. With this in mind, I just want my players to keep fighting during every possession,” Claros said.
“We’ll see how we are when the time comes. For me, the important thing is the mental state. How our players face reality, knowing that opportunities to fight and believe are always there,” he added.
“From this mindset, competition arises. After that, obviously, we need to perform better. In preparation, some teams scored too easily. At this level, you can’t allow that. Accuracy will be crucial,” he concluded./ASC, WDJ