Should Thoss be considered again for Gilas Pilipinas?

MANILA, Philippines – Even before prospects like Greg Slaughter, Japeth Aguilar, and June Mar Fajardo arrived, Joachim Gunther Thoss was one of the better big men in Philippine basketball.

 

Armed with a combination of height, bulk, and quickness, Sonny Thoss made his maiden stint in the PBA in 2004 where he was selected 5th overall by the Alaska Aces. During that time, giants like Asi Taulava, Danny Seigle, Danny Ildefonso, and Eric Menk would reign in the paint.

 

But the James Cook University alum showcased his wares and would muscle his way inside the paint gain reputation as one of the best young big men in the league.

 

Thoss first represented the country back in 2009, under the Powerade Team Pilipinas. He was once again tapped to don the red, white, and blue as part of Gilas Pilipinas, where he played a vital role in backing up naturalized center Marcus Douthit. (READ: Gilas Diaries: Sonny Disposition)

Together with rest of the nationals, Thoss won the Jones Cup crown in 2012.

One of Thoss’ most memorable experiences would be a phenomenal performance in the 2013 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

At 6-foot-7, Thoss put on the clamps and shackled former Best Import Denzel Bowles in their semifinal matchup against San Mig Coffee. The 6-foot-10, Bowles was unable to assert his dominance as Thoss did a gargantuan effort of stopping the Mixers’ import.

In the finals against Brgy. Ginebra, Thoss once again did the same job, limiting Ginebra import Vernon Macklin to 12 points per game as Alaska swept their opponents for the title. Macklin was averaging close to 24 points per contest prior to the finals series.

Thoss was hailed as Finals MVP, averaging at least 10 points and 10 rebounds in the best-of-5 championship.

He was actually part of the 17-man pool released by Gilas head coach Chot Reyes, but did not make the cut as injuries required him to sit out.

Back in action for the boss

But now that he’s back and healthy, it seems Thoss, who is already in his 10th PBA season, wants to prove he’s still the boss.

So far, the Papua New Guinea-born center is averaging a team-best 14.2 points and 7.2 rebounds, helping the Alaska Aces win three games in the Philippine Cup.

Against Ginebra’s twin tower combo of Greg Slaughter and Japeth Aguilar last Saturday, the 32-year-old Thoss had his hands full but was able to impress observers. He said the mindset was just staying aggressive.

“(I) just stay aggressive (and) try to get everybody involved. They do the same thing so we have to do the same thing,” he said after their match.

He finished with 22 points on 11-of-17 from the field, and added 6 boards. Although Slaughter did finish with 18 points and 8 rebounds, he was clearly taken to school by the more experienced Thoss with a variety of post moves.

He relayed how challenging it was going up against a towering frontline, but he says it’s all part of the job.

“You go through one guy, there’s another guy waiting for you. It’s a tough one but a lot of lessons to learn and an opportunity to grow,” he shared.

Asked if he wants to suit up again for Gilas Pilipinas, Thoss said it’s an opportunity he’s willing to take.

“Of course, if given another chance, who wouldn’t want to represent the country. I’ll just focus on my team then we’ll see what happens,” he said.

One thing is clear: Thoss is still one of the finest big men out there. But time is slowly ticking away and there are many new faces in the national team who may be just as talented. For now, Thoss will have to wait and see what comes next. – Rappler.com