SBP appoints Tim Cone as Gilas Pilipinas head coach, Richard del Rosario as team manager

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has announced that Tim Cone will be taking the helm as head coach for Gilas Pilipinas Men.

This decision follows his successful tour of duty during the Hangzhou Asian Games, where he helped the Philippines end a 61-year gold medal drought in men’s basketball.

“Coach Tim accomplished what has not been done in decades with only a few weeks to prepare and multiple challenges in terms of personnel so we’re excited to see what he can accomplish with a long-term program in place especially if such program is supported by all basketball stakeholders,” said SBP president Al Panlilio.

With an impressive track record, Cone is set to lead the team in upcoming events, including the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers next month, where Gilas will face off against Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei. Additionally, the Philippines will compete in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Latvia from July 2 to 7.

“Earlier this month, coach Tim presented his plans to local leagues from which players will likely be selected from. This program will be put to test this year and adjustments will be made as necessary,” added SBP Executive Director Erika Dy.

Cone’s coaching prowess is unparalleled, boasting a record of 25 PBA titles and being the only two-time PBA Grand Slam winner in the league’s history.

This marks his fourth time as head coach of the national team, having previously led both the Centennial Team to a bronze in the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games and guided Gilas to a gold medal victory in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

“I’m looking forward to taking on the role of national team head coach again,” said Cone. “I’ve always firmly believed from back in 1998 when I coached the Centennial Team that you’ve got to go out and get the best players in the country to represent us.”

“We all have different opinions on who the best players are but we’re confident we picked the best players who will form the best team,” he added.

Cone has also handpicked 12 players who will form the core of his team moving forward.

PBA stars Scottie Thompson, Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Jamie Malonzo, and June Mar Fajardo will join forces with Japan B-League imports Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu, Carl Tamayo, and Kai Sotto. Reigning UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao will round out the local unit.

Pending FIBA’s decision on his eligibility for upcoming tournaments, Justin Brownlee is set to take the naturalized player spot while Richard Del Rosario will go onboard as the team manager.