GILAS PILIPINAS FINAL 12 ROSTER vs New Zealand! Walang AJ EDU! Mahihirapan Dito ang Tall Blacks!
GILAS PILIPINAS FINAL 12 ROSTER vs New Zealand: No AJ Edu – Can They Handle the Tall Blacks?
The basketball spotlight is once again on Gilas Pilipinas as they gear up for a highly anticipated face-off against New Zealand’s Tall Blacks. With the recent announcement of the Final 12 roster, Filipino fans are buzzing with excitement, but the absence of AJ Edu raises critical questions about the team’s readiness against the formidable New Zealand squad.
The Challenge Without AJ Edu
AJ Edu has been a cornerstone of Gilas’ defense in recent international competitions. Known for his rim protection, versatility, and ability to alter shots in the paint, Edu’s presence is a game-changer. Unfortunately, due to a lingering injury (or another reason, as specified in the video), he is not part of the Final 12. This leaves a significant gap in Gilas’ interior defense, especially against New Zealand, a team known for its size, physicality, and aggressive rebounding.
Without Edu, the team will rely heavily on its remaining big men. Players like Kai Sotto and June Mar Fajardo (if part of the Final 12) will have to step up in a major way to protect the rim and secure rebounds against a Tall Blacks lineup brimming with athleticism. The question remains: will this be enough?
New Zealand: A Formidable Foe
New Zealand has always been a tough opponent for the Philippines. Known for their gritty style of play, strong fundamentals, and emphasis on teamwork, the Tall Blacks thrive on exploiting weaknesses in their opponents. Their height advantage, particularly in the frontcourt, poses a direct challenge to Gilas’ undersized lineup.
The Tall Blacks’ guards are no pushovers either, boasting the ability to shoot consistently from beyond the arc while penetrating defenses with ease. With these strengths, New Zealand will likely capitalize on the absence of a key defensive player like Edu, especially in transition plays and pick-and-roll situations.
How Gilas Can Fight Back
Despite the challenges, Gilas Pilipinas is not entering this matchup without hope. The team’s Final 12 roster features several dynamic players who can rise to the occasion:
- Kai Sotto – The towering center is expected to anchor the paint and provide much-needed rim protection. His height and offensive skills will be pivotal in keeping Gilas competitive.
Dwight Ramos – Known for his all-around play, Ramos brings leadership, scoring, and defensive tenacity.
Scottie Thompson – With his quick hands and basketball IQ, Thompson can disrupt New Zealand’s offensive flow while facilitating fast breaks.
RR Pogoy and CJ Perez – Both players are capable scorers who can ignite the offense, especially when New Zealand clamps down on inside plays.
For Gilas to succeed, the team must focus on executing their game plan efficiently:
Push the pace to take advantage of their speed.
Hit outside shots consistently to open up the floor.
Play cohesive team defense, ensuring no easy buckets for the Tall Blacks.
What’s at Stake?
This game is more than just a match—it’s a test of Gilas Pilipinas’ mettle in the international arena. Can they overcome adversity, rally behind their Final 12, and bring glory to the Philippines? Or will the Tall Blacks’ size and physicality prove too much to handle?
