Uichico working on ‘maximizing strengths’ as Gilas struggles without big man

Gilas cadets’ lack of big men and preparation showed in their first tuneup game against the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Tuesday.

The Philippine team is building up for the Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and so far, there’s still a lot of work to be done.

“We lack big men. It’s hard to play without a big man, but these are the players that will play in the Southeast Asian Games, so we will just try to maximize our strengths and see how we can make up for our deficiencies,” said Jong Uichico, who will coach the Gilas cadets in the SEA Games after escaping Ateneo, 86-79.

Christian Standhardinger, the Cadets’ lone center, won’t be with the team until he finishes his commitments in the Fiba Asia Cup in Lebanon.

Without the rugged 6-foot-8 Fil-German, the Cadets will have to play with either Troy Rosario, who is a forward, or Raymar Jose at center.

Author: Mark Giongco
Full Article: http://sports.inquirer.net/259691/uichico-working-maximizing-strengths-gilas-struggles-without-big-man