The upcoming Gilas Pilipinas window is upon us, and the question of player selection is a hot topic. One name curiously absent from recent discussions is Robert Bolick, a talented guard currently playing for NLEX under the MVP group. This exclusion, despite Bolick's impressive playmaking and shooting skills, has sparked questions and accusations of bias within the national team selection process.
Snow Badua, a prominent Filipino sports analyst, recently highlighted this issue on social media. He pointed out that the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the governing body for basketball in the Philippines, doesn't have the final say in Gilas selection. This cryptic message, along with the mention of "haba ng hair," a possible reference to Gilas manager Alfrancis Chua, has fueled speculation that Bolick's past decision might be impacting his national team chances.
Last year, Bolick opted to play in Japan, leaving Northport, a team rumored to be a farm team for the San Miguel Corporation (SMC) squads. Upon his return to the PBA, he was traded to NLEX, a team under the MVP group, the main backer of Gilas Pilipinas.
If Alfrancis Chua's decision-making is indeed influenced by Bolick's past move, it would be a major cause for concern. National team selection should be based purely on merit and a player's ability to contribute to Gilas' success. Bolick's current form as arguably the PBA's best playmaker, with top-notch passing and shooting abilities, makes a strong case for his inclusion.
Prioritizing perceived slights over objective selection hurts the national team in the long run. Gilas needs the best players available, regardless of their past decisions or affiliations. Excluding Bolick based on anything other than his on-court performance would be a disservice to the team and Filipino basketball as a whole.
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