Gilas Pilipinas Plans Qatar Training Camp for FIBA Asia Cup Prep

MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas is set to hold a training camp in Doha, Qatar, in mid-February as part of its preparation for the final window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers. The national basketball team will face Taiwan and New Zealand in crucial road games on February 23, aiming to maintain its unbeaten record in the qualifiers.

National team manager Richard del Rosario revealed that the camp may include participation in a tournament in Qatar. Head coach Tim Cone emphasized the importance of using the upcoming window to refine the team’s chemistry and readiness for the FIBA Asia Cup, scheduled for August 5-17 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Gilas Pilipinas has already secured a spot in the main draw after sweeping the first two windows, including a notable victory over New Zealand in Manila last November. The team’s 4-0 record has positioned them as strong contenders for the tournament.

“The idea is we’re gonna use this window, hopefully, to prepare and get better for the FIBA Asia Cup,” Cone said. He added that the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup break in early February will allow the team to focus on its buildup.

The training camp in Doha, tentatively scheduled for February 10 or 11, will include friendly matches to test the team’s cohesion and competitiveness. Cone highlighted the challenges ahead, particularly against a revamped Taiwan squad and a determined New Zealand team seeking redemption for their earlier loss.

“We have such small windows to be together that each window is absolutely crucial to our chemistry and our ability to compete at a high level together,” Cone said. He also acknowledged the tough competition expected in the FIBA Asia Cup, with teams like Australia, Japan, and Lebanon already qualified.

Gilas Pilipinas’ journey to the FIBA Asia Cup continues to draw attention as the team aims to make a strong showing on the international stage.