RSA hails Gilas’ triumph, credits MVP’s hoops vision

San Miguel Corporation’s top boss, Ramon Ang, on Thursday, congratulated the Gilas Pilipinas squad, a day after its miraculous come-from-behind win over mighty China in their men’s basketball semifinal match in the Hangzhou Asian Games.

“Let me join millions of Filipino basketball fans in congratulating Gilas Pilipinas—from its coaches to the players and team management —on our country’s historic return to the Asian Games Finals after 33 years,” said Ang in a statement.

There was not much expectation when Ang’s San Miguel management team was entrusted by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to form and manage the men’s basketball team to the Hangzhou Asiad—from the formation of the team coaches and players up to the competition proper.

But Tim Cone’s Gilas has more than lived up to expectations, especially after the exhilarating 77-76 win over China on Wednesday night to send the Philippines to the finals of Asiad basketball for the first time after 33 years.

Ang, though, was quick to give back the credit to someone, who is both a business rival and basketball ally.

“Our sincere appreciation goes to Mr. Manny Pangilinan, Chairman Emeritus of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the Gilas Pilipinas we cheer for today,” said Ang.

“He conceived, nurtured, and invested in the program, and it is his unwavering support and guidance all these years that molded–and continues to drive–the team.”

The win over China put the Philippines in the finals against Jordan. The last time the Philippines battled for gold in the Asiad was in 1990 when an all-pro team coached by Robert Jaworski fought and lost to China, 90-76, to settle for the silver medal.

“Gilas Pilipinas has given our country great honor, and San Miguel Corporation is proud to be supporting the team, along with many others–including private sector partners, government, and the Philippine Basketball Association—whose collaborative efforts have helped make this Asian Games journey not just memorable, but also triumphant.”

Ang exhorted all Filipinos—from the fans to the stakeholders—to continue supporting the team in Asiad.

“As Gilas Pilipinas sets its sights on the gold, let us all continue to be united, and wish them all the best.”