Oftana officially Gilas' 12th man for Asian Games title defense
Calvin Oftana has been named the 12th man for the Gilas Pilipinas national basketball team for the upcoming Asian Games. Coach Tim Cone selected Oftana due to his familiarity with the team's system and his recent recovery from injury.
Why it matters
The inclusion of a key player like Oftana is vital for the Philippines' efforts to defend their gold medal in a major regional sporting event.
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total See Medalist Asian Games Asian Games --> Oftana officially Gilas' 12th man for Asian Games title defense Philippine lineup is complete by Gerry Ramos 12 hours ago Calvin Oftana is all set for a Gilas return PHOTO: FIBA BEING familiar with the Gilas Pilipinas system made Calvin Oftana the obvious pick to become the 12th man in the lineup for the 20th Asian Games .
Coach Tim Cone stressed this point after confirming Oftana is set to join the national team in Nagoya, Japan at the last minute.
"Because of the system we are running and his previous experience in the window teams, he's a plug and play player and will fit right in," said the Philippine shot-caller in a text message from the Aichi Prefecture.
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