Robert Bolick refused to be demoralized by the three losses Gilas Pilipinas absorbed during the first round of the FIBA World Cup, even making a bold claim before they take on Tunisia in their classification match played Friday in Beijing.
“We will win tonight!!” Bolick tweeted hours before the scheduled 8 p.m. tipoff at the Wukesong Arena in the Chinese capital.
Bolick has been perhaps the least content among the Gilas players, a trait that has impressed many amid the disappointing run in FIBA’s global showpiece.
He averaged 7.7 points while making 3-of-11 from threes during defeats to Italy, Serbia and Angola, refusing to back down against bigger defenders.
His rise from a forgotten figure in La Salle’s 2013 UAAP title-winning squad into one of Gilas’ most productive players has been a surprise for many, though those who were behind the scene knew all along of Bolick’s potential to shine.
“We had very high hopes for Bolick,” said Magnolia assistant Juno Sauler, who coached Bolick at La Salle for two seasons in 2013 and 2014 before the guard transferred to San Beda to begin his meteoric rise.
“Unfortunately, he transferred to San Beda. But it was good for him,” he added. “He’s one of the hardest working players in practice, laban talaga kung laban. He’s also a very smart player and can play both ends of the court.
“So I’m really happy for him, not just playing for NorthPort but also playing for the Philippine team.”
Bolick and the rest of Gilas are aiming to win all two games in Beijing in order to keep its slim chances of making the Olympics.
But with China having an inside track at the Tokyo berth given to the best Asian team after the World Cup, Gilas can get the most logistical chance of securing a berth to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
The Nationals play Iran on Sunday, a game Gilas needs to win as well. Regardless of last night’s outcome against the Tunisians, they’ll try to end the World Cup on a high note before returning home.
Meanwhile, the United States starts off its second round stint tonight against Greece and NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounpo in Shenzhen.
The US won all three matches in group play held in Shanghai, including an overtime thriller against Turkey. (Jonas Terrado)
