PBA Honors Gilas Pilipinas for Successful SEA Games Title Defense

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) paid tribute to Gilas Pilipinas during the halftime of the Philippine Cup quarterfinals between TNT and Magnolia at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The national basketball team was warmly received by fans as they were honored for successfully defending the country’s men’s basketball title at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok.

Head coach Norman Black led a resilient, hastily assembled roster through an undefeated campaign, culminating in a hard-fought 70–64 triumph over host Thailand in the gold medal match. Players Robert Bolick, Thirdy Ravena, Von Pessumal, Jamie Malonzo, Abu Tratter, Veejay Pre, Justin Chua, and Poy Erram were present to accept the accolades, while teammates Dalph Panopio, Matthew Wright, Ray Parks Jr., Cedric Manzano, and Allen Liwag were acknowledged in absentia.

The recognition ceremony was spearheaded by PBA Board chairman Ricky Vargas, commissioner Willie Marcial, and Magnolia team governor Jason Webb, who formally congratulated the squad at center court. Coach Black was supported by a skilled coaching and support staff, including assistants Sandy Arespacochaga, Bacon Austria, and Andre Santos; team management led by Yvette Ruiz, Jonvic Remulla, and assistant team manager Ryan Gregorio; video coordinator Sandro Soriano; trainer Diego Lozano; physical therapist Greg Razon; and staff members Rolly Arguelles and JM Manlasa.

Despite challenges posed by last-minute eligibility rule changes implemented by the host country, the team successfully adapted and secured the Philippines’ 20th men’s basketball gold at the SEA Games since their debut in 1977. This victory further cements the nation’s longstanding basketball supremacy in the region.

Commissioner Marcial also announced plans for the league to honor other Filipino medalists from the biennial SEA Games during upcoming Season 50 events. The Philippines concluded the Games with an overall medal count of 50 golds, 73 silvers, and 154 bronzes, ranking sixth in the general standings, with Gilas Pilipinas’ success standing out as a significant highlight.