MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang is still high on Gilas PIlipinas fever, and urges Filipinos to continue supporting the national basketball team as it competes in the Asian Games.

In a statement on Thursday, September 18, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte reminded the public of Gilas’ impressive performance in the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

“We take this opportunity to wish our team good luck. Recently, during the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Gilas Pilipinas exhibited Filipino excellence in sports by playing with fervent passion, scoring our first win in 40 years and winning the hearts of international audiences,”  Valte said.

She added: “Over the next two weeks, let us show Team Philippines the same support as they carry our flag in the 2014 Asian Games and again showcase the ability of the Filipino people to the world.”

The 17^th Asian Games, the continent’s biggest sports event, kicks off in Incheon, South Korea, on Friday, September 19. It will cover 36 sports and disciplines, and will draw around 10,000 athletes from 45 countries until October 4.

While Gilas failed to advance to the round of 16 in the FIBA World Cup, its well-fought matches with some of the sport’s top teams – including 3rd ranked Argentina,  which won by just 4 points – gained the respect of fans at home and abroad.

Gilas Pilipinas team captain Jimmy Alapag is postponing his retirement from international play as he is set to suit up for the Philippines in Incheon, while Marcus Douthit will replace naturalized big man Andray Blatche after the Olympic Council of Asia barred from playing.

The Council cited a rule that says a naturalized player must complete a 3-year residency in the country he represents. – Rappler.com