Top 5 players who can be playing for Philippines

Though the next World Cup will be at 2019, the Philippines should be selecting today who will eventually don the blue-and-white jerseys for the Philippines. In this article, I'll be showing you guys who I believe can be going off into the 2019 championships.

5. Calvin Abueva (Alaska Aces, Forward)

Calvin Abeuva was initially denied a spot in the Philippine roster, owing to his emotional tendencies and attitude. But it seems The Beast has finally tamed himself, at least with his attitude.

Before, he'd be somewhat like the Lance Stephenson of the PBA. He'll be in your face, and even though he won't blow on your ear, he will taunt you. Today, he will still play sticky defense at you, but he'll be more level-minded, more composed, less foul-happy.

And with a hard-working guy like Abueva, who'll scrap for the boards, fight for the 50-50 balls, and keep a hand up against the world's finest, on the team, its hard to imagine Philippines losing the rebound battle.

4. James Yap (San Mig Coffee, Guard/Forward)

 

Seriously, who won't put James Yap in their make-believe Philippine Team?

It's not just because of his fame, most likely not because of his "looks", it's because of his scoring prowess. He can score at will. He has a million moves, as Mico Halili will put it. He's also an unappreciated rebounder, getting 4.3 boards per contest in his whole career.

But what sets him apart from other scorers is his uncanny ability to score the important shots, the game-winners, the buzzer-beaters. Gilas' shortcomings in the end-game is well-chronicled around the globe. And James Yap has shown this year that he can be your go-to guy when you need clutch scoring.

3. Terrence Romeo (GlobalPort, Point Guard) 

 

Romeo is a 5'11 guard, roughly the same height as other point guards of the Philippine team. While the other guards of the Philippines bring their shooting touch and driving skills, Romeo has both, plus a really nasty crossover set.

Romeo can SIZE (pun not intended) up his defender in more than a hundred ways. He can cross you over then step back for a shot, or do a behind-the-back then a crossover. The possibilities are endless. He also has minor international experience, having played for Manila West, the champs, in the recent FIBA 3x3 Manila Masters tournament. Plus, he also possesses a nasty shooting touch, adding more venom in his already potent arsenal.

Now if he can play better defense...

2. Joachim Thoss (Alaska, Forward/Center)

 

Thoss has been part of the Gilas program for a few years, taking part in the 2012 Jones Cup tournament that the Philippines won. He proved he can play internationally, using those hook shots and others.

I wouldn't wonder if the SBP decides to bring back the Boss to the program, even if he won't play. Heck, he could mentor "The Kraken" June Mar Fajardo, teach him a few tricks Danny Ildefonso forgot in his lesson plan.

But if the need arises, Joachim Gunther (I like that name) Thoss can contribute big time for the Filipinos.

1. Greg Slaughter (Barangay Ginebra, Center)

 

Surprised? Don't be.

All of us probably expect Gregzilla to enter the Philippine training pool if he is invited, and we have every reason to be excited.

Slaughter is a 7-foot behemoth with a soft outside touch, and honestly, having a 7-footer is your lineup is a luxury. Think about it: Gilas can trot out a starting 5 of:

G - LA Tenorio
G - Paul Lee
F - Gabe Norwood
F - June Mar Fajardo
C - Andray Blatche

Then when you sub out Fajardo, you get Greg, effectively creating a twin tower combination. However, he lacks a low post move set, which he should work on sometime.

What is your opinion? Do you agree with these picks? Is there someone you want to be here? (GS)