Imports to play key role in FIBA-Asia Champions Cup

THE TITLE IN the FIBA-Asia Champions Cup may very well be decided by the quality of imports from the different participation squads.

This was the assessment of the last man to steer the Philippines to the championship of the annual meet.

“Imports make the difference sa Champions Cup. Imports matter a lot,” said Junel Baculi in his statement to the press, who guided two separate national squads to back-to-back titles in 1995 and 96, respectively, under the banner of Andok’s and
Hapee Toothpaste ballclubs. “The better your imports are, the better your chances.”

But while Smart Gilas-Pilipinas won’t have the benefit of a reinforcement, Baculi said he still likes the nationals’ chances
owing to the presence of 7-foot naturalized player Marcus Douthit and veteran slotman Asi Taulava.

“Their presence will help us out a lot, especially Asi in terms of rebounding, defense and siyempre, experience,” added the former national coach. Correspondent Jonas Panerio