Players like Ange Kouame, who was one of those instrumental in the final against Jordan, never
asked about how much they were getting for playing in the national team. —AFP
There’s no doubt that the players of the national team, who emerged victorious in the Asian Games (Asiad) men’s basketball event, will receive rewards for their stellar performance. However, the bonus they receive is simply an added benefit.
Alfrancis Chua, the team manager, stated that money was never a concern for the members of the Philippine squad who willingly accepted the opportunity to represent their country in the Hangzhou Asian Games.
“Not a single player inquired about the amount of the allowance. Nothing. That’s a positive thing,” Chua said in Filipino during a press conference held at the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Office in Libis, Quezon City.
Chua commended those who participated in the historic journey to securing the country’s first gold medal since 1962, despite the team being formed just two weeks before heading to China for the continental meet.
Chua emphasized that the players were solely motivated by their commitment to restore Gilas Pilipinas’ position as a dominant force, rather than their financial compensation for representing the flag and country.
“We are extremely proud of the players. Even [Justin] Brownlee and [Ange] Kouame did not ask for anything. They simply wanted to win,” Chua stated. “They did not receive any additional compensation to play in the Asian Games.”
These sentiments were in stark contrast to the demands made by a player that PBA chair Ricky Vargas disclosed.
“I spoke to one player who expressed interest in playing for the team. He said, ‘Yes, I love the country, I will play for the team.’ And then he stated, ‘Talk to my manager.’ And then the manager replied, ‘He will play as long as you pay him.’ Then I consulted Alfrancis and Tim,” Vargas revealed.
Chua mentioned that Ramon S. Ang, the head honcho of San Miguel Corporation, and Manny V. Pangilinan, the chairman emeritus of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, have committed to rewarding the team for their historic accomplishment.
“If you are wondering if they will receive anything, of course they will. They won the gold,” Chua confirmed. “Boss RSA (Ang) and Sir MVP (Pangilinan) will give something to the players.” INQ
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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
