Gilas Controversy: Did Coach Chot Reyes really TOOK FULL RESPONSIBILITY of our disaster 2023 FIBA World Cup?

 

Chot Reyes stepped up to accept full responsibility for the failure of Gilas Pilipinas to secure a single victory in the FIBA World Cup, dashing the team's hopes of a direct entry into the 2024 Paris Olympics.

As the national coach, Reyes acknowledged his accountability for the outcome of the Filipino squad's performance in the quadrennial tournament. The team's prospects hit a new low with a crushing 87-68 defeat to South Sudan at the commencement of the classification phase.

This loss, marking the fourth consecutive defeat for the host country, combined with China's triumph over Angola (83-76) and Japan's victory against Venezuela (86-77) in Okinawa, officially eliminated the Philippines from contention for the lone Asian Olympic slot up for grabs in this World Cup edition.

Reyes openly admitted his role in the setback. In a somber tone during the post-game press conference, he stated, "I take full accountability. I take full responsibility."

Furthermore, the 60-year-old coach disclosed that he had extended his apology to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan after Gilas fell short of progressing to the second round of the group stage by suffering three consecutive losses in Group A.

When asked whether he also owed a similar apology to the fervent basketball-loving nation, Reyes emphasized that he had expressed his regrets multiple times in the past, stating, "I've had, numerous times. I've already said I'm really sorry that we were not able to deliver."

With one more game left in the tournament against Asian rival China, Gilas now faces a match where pride and honor will be on the line for the national team.

Unfortunately for the Gilas Pilipinas program and the million Filipinos who are disappointed, coach Chot, only said it.

His actions did not follow through. How can a man state that he is taking full responsibility but is not willing to send an irrevocable resignation from his post?

In short, he is only giving as a lip service. Actions speak louder than words.