Gilas Pilipinas has found their new mentor at the mantle, securing previously inducted interim head coach Tim Cone to a full-time role, Spin Philippines reports. Noting his recent success during the National’s 2023 Phnom Penh Southeast Asian Games, the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, and his extensive resume at the Philippine professional level, he emerged from a shortlist of deserving individuals as an ideal prospect for the role.
Instagram: @complexphilippines
While the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has yet to formally announce his signing, news of his acquisition circulated on social media last Sunday, January 28, 2024, following Barangay Ginebra’s’ semi-final exit to the San Miguel Beermen of the PBA’s 21st Commissioner’s Cup. Tending to the press post-game, he mentions his excitement if chosen for the role yet proceeded to dwell on the loss.
“They (SBP) haven’t told me anything so it’s hard for me to comment. But literally, I didn’t get a call…If they did choose me, I’m looking forward to doing it,” mentions Cone.
“I know that we have talked about it but I think that’s just for another setting, I’m not ready to talk about that. I’m kinda down at the moment, kinda upset so I don’t want to talk about something that’s outside of this game,” he adds
According to the report, the 66-year-old mentor “garnered the highest metrics when it came to acceptability and likability among the stakeholders and fans,” which is attributable to his loyalty to the association and achievements locally and internationally. He is reportedly joined by Barangay Ginebra assistant coach Richard Del Rosario as the program’s team manager, regarded as the “person that could work best with Cone.”
