Gilas Pilipinas will welcome two fresh additions to its training camp as preparations intensify for the opening window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Coach Tim Cone confirmed that Converge rookie Juan Gomez de Liano has been invited to train with the national pool, while Quentin Millora-Brown is set to suit up for the program for the first time. Cone clarified that Gomez de Liano’s inclusion in practices does not automatically guarantee a spot in the final 12, but noted his presence will be valuable as Gilas builds chemistry leading into the qualifiers.
Both players are expected to report on Tuesday when training officially begins at the Blue Eagles Gym, joining a pool that has already been working under Cone’s revamped system. Millora-Brown and Gomez de Liano are the only newcomers to the scheme, with Cone acknowledging that they will have to absorb everything from scratch.
Gilas opens its campaign against Guam on November 28, with the team scheduled to depart for the island on the 25th. Visa concerns continue to complicate the final lineup, and Cone admitted that the situation has forced the coaching staff to keep all options open. Gomez de Liano’s working visa, however, gives him a logistical advantage should unexpected changes arise.
With injuries, visa issues, and roster fluidity all in play, Cone said Gomez de Liano could find himself elevated to the final roster if circumstances demand it. The young guard remains on the official pool list, keeping him in the conversation for a possible spot in the final 12.