Despite finishing the third window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers without a win, Gilas Pilipinas found a positive takeaway in the impressive debut of Mike Phillips.
Following the team’s 92-49 loss to Australia on Monday, Gilas head coach Tim Cone commended Phillips for the relentless energy and effort he displayed throughout the game.
“His nickname is ‘Motor Mike,’ and there’s a reason for that,” Cone remarked. “He plays with so much enthusiasm, and that’s something that our fans will appreciate.”
Making his first appearance in a FIBA tournament, the former De La Salle University standout and UAAP Season 88 Finals MVP averaged 4.0 points and 8.5 rebounds in two games. Against the Boomers, Phillips collected 14 rebounds, six points, one steal, and one block.
Cone highlighted the young forward’s determination, noting that he continued to play with intensity despite Gilas trailing by as many as 43 points and missing veteran naturalized player Justin Brownlee.
“He was one of the bright lights for us,” Cone added. “He’s very, very infectious.”
Gilas Pilipinas will now shift its focus to the second round of the Asian Qualifiers, where it will host Jordan on August 28 and Iran on August 30 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The upcoming home games will give the national team an opportunity to improve on key areas, particularly its defense and ball handling, after struggling with an average of 17.5 turnovers and being outrebounded by an average of 5.5 rebounds during the qualifying window.
While encouraged by Phillips’ strong start with the national team, Cone stressed that sustained team success remains the ultimate goal.
“We only competed in stretches,” said the coach, noting that the team’s current level of play “That’s not good enough against high-quality teams.”