The inevitable has happened for Gilas, TNT, and Chot Reyes on Sunday evening.
After a masterful 87-74 Game Six win over the Magnolia Hotshots, the Tropang Giga advanced to the Philippine Cup Finals.
Now, the PBA’s only six-time Coach of the Year has to wear two hats, being coach of TNT and the Philippine Men’s National Basketball Team.
Reyes will not be able to savor making another Philippine Cup Finals as he will begin Gilas’ practice for the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers’ fourth window on Monday at Meralco Gym in Pasig City.
Meanwhile, the other semifinals bracket will end on Wednesday after Meralco was able to extend their series against San Miguel to a decider.
This will make the best-of-seven finals series begin on Sunday, August 21 at the earliest.
By then, Gilas will have their entire pool in practice as Kai Sotto is set to arrive on the 18th followed by Jordan Clarkson on the 19th.
Reyes though stressed that Gilas will be his topmost priority.
“Gilas is my priority,” he said as he left the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Gilas’ games though will be right smack in the Philippine Cup Finals.
Game Two of the Finals is scheduled on August 24, Game Three on the 26th, and Game Four on the 28th.
Gilas, meanwhile, will be in Beirut to take on the Cedars on the 25th before hosting Saudi Arabia in Pasay City on the 29th.
And if the PBA does not adjust its schedule, Reyes will most probably let his assistant Bong Ravena or Sandy Arespacochaga take over coaching duties for TNT.
Chot’s son Josh won’t be around as he will be in Tehran, Iran from August 21-28 as Gilas Youth will play in the 2022 FIBA U18 Asian Championship.
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The second game of each PBA gameday is live-streamed on SMART Sports.
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