Scottie Thompson is working double time to regain his deadly form and help Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Basketball World Cup set from 25 August to 10 September at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Thompson said he is thrilled to be part of the pool so he is repaying the trust given by Gilas coach Chot Reyes by showing up in great shape for the prestigious 32-nation tournament.
Since helping Barangay Ginebra San Miguel reach the finals of the Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup two months ago, Thompson hasn’t had any serious competition.
He wasn’t part of the team that campaigned in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games as his wife, Jinky, gave birth to their first baby.
Thompson said he is thrilled — and inspired — to play for the country anew.
“I’m very excited to be part of it again,” Thompson said.
“I wasn’t able to play in the SEA Games, but I have a new baby and that serves as a motivation for me.”
Thompson has been in attendance since Gilas’ first meeting last week.
‘I’m very excited to be part of it again.’
In the second day of the mini-camp held at the Meralco Gym, Thompson was seen working on his shooting, fast-tracking his conditioning by running up and down the floor and learning the offensive patterns in the five-on-zero drill.
Reyes said that aside from the injuries being experienced by some members of the 20-man pool, players are still far from basketball shape and Thompson is one of them.
“There’s a technical stuff that we ran in the first two sessions,” Reyes said.
“We couldn’t come up live five-on-five drills because of the injuries to some players and we’re still waiting for the other members of the pool.”
“We just have to be very flexible and very agile in this journey.”
Thompson realized that he needs to catch up fast.
“It’s still a long way to go,” Thompson said.
“I haven’t played since the championship last conference, but at least we still have some time to get back in great condition.”
