source: Reuben Terrado, JVP, GMA News
Pilipinas-Smart Gilas coach Rajko Toroman is impressed on the impact Air21's Dondon Hontiveros is making with the team.
In fact, Toroman believes that Hontiveros will be a vital part of the team even though he has only joined them in practice after the Express was swept by Talk 'N Text in the semifinal round of the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
"Dondon has really picked up the system," said Toroman in Tuesday's Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum. "I think that he is the puzzle that we have been missing. He is a guy that can do a good job for us."
Hontiveros along with Meralco's Asi Taulava have joined Gilas in their build-up for the FIBA-Asia Champions Cup on May 28 to June 5 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Jimmy Alapag and Kelly Williams of the newly-crowned PBA Commissioner's Cup champions Talk 'N Text have also been included in the team but has yet to show up in practice after a grueling six-game finals series against Barangay Ginebra.
"We will still make a decision if they will be part of the team for the FIBA-Asia Champions Cup," said Toroman.
But the Serbian mentor hopes that Alapag and Williams could make it to the team especially Williams, who expects to play a big role on defense if he becomes part of Gilas.
"We are a little weak in the four-position and I expect Kelly to help us defensively. He has helped up on defense during the Asian Games in that position. He covered the holes in our defense," said Toroman.
Toroman said he hopes the inclusion of pro cagers in Gilas' line-up could the Nationals' chances in the FIBA-Asia Championship set in September in Nanjin, China. The tournament will be a qualifier for the 2012 London Olympics. - Reuben Terrado, JVP, GMA News
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