Meet the Final 12 Representing Gilas Pilipinas at the 2023 FIBA World Cup

Gilas Pilipinas have a shot for glory at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and these are the 12 men who are up for the task.

It is not the first time the Philippines’ first time competing at the FIBA World Cup, and it is not even the first time the country will be hosting the historic event. But there is something in the air about this year’s tournament. Perhaps it is the promise that comes with a proven NBA player on our side, or maybe it is the hope that the fans of the home team will drive them through to the latter stages of the competition, or it could just be plain nerves.

Whatever the reason, the anticipation for the 2023 FIBA World Cup feels different than before. And as our country heads into the biggest international basketball tournament, as co-hosts, it’s time to rally behind our country’s representatives.

From a 16-man pool, Gilas Pilipinas has announced the Final 12 who will be fighting to defend our home courts. And their task will be a hefty one. The Philippines has not been able to break out of the group stage to advance to the next round in their last two World Cup attempts. With this, to advance would be the first goal. On top of this, however, Gilas members have expressed that they are also aiming to finish as the best-performing Asian team in the entire tournament to secure an Olympic berth.

Will they be able to pull it off? The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) believes it is this group who might just.

Here are the 12 faces representing Gilas Pilipinas at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.