Serbian Coach who previously criticized Gilas Pilipinas now recognizes their skills

FILE–China’s Serbian coach Aleksandar Djrodjevic. -FIBA BASKETBALL

Aleksandar Djrodjevic, the Serbian national coach who previously criticized Gilas Pilipinas during the 2019 Fiba World Cup, has now developed a newfound respect for the team. Djrodjevic, who currently coaches the Chinese national team, acknowledges the talent and athleticism of the current Gilas squad led by Jordan Clarkson. He praises the team for their size and rotational strategy involving their big men. Additionally, Djrodjevic highlights Clarkson’s ability to handle the ball and make decisive plays in crucial moments of a game.

Reflecting on his previous remarks, Djrodjevic attributes his comments to his philosophy of treating every game as the most important. He acknowledges that the previous comments were made in the heat of the moment and recognizes the growth and improvement of the current Gilas team.

Both China and the Philippines are competing for the lone continental ticket to the Paris Olympic Games next year. They could potentially face each other in the tournament’s second phase or in the classification round. Djrodjevic emphasizes his competitive outlook and willingness to face the Philippines if the situation arises.

China is grouped with Serbia, South Sudan, and Puerto Rico in Group B. They will face Djrodjevic’s compatriots in their opening game on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

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