Gilas Pilipinas Youth, coached by LA Tenorio, during the Fiba Under 16 Asia Cup. –FIBA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas Youth head coach LA Tenorio came to the defense of his players after the team missed the quarterfinals of the Fiba U16 Asia Cup.
Tenorio first commended the Philippines’ U16 squad despite falling short of the continental competition’s Top 8 for the first time in history.
READ: Gilas Youth sent home early in Fiba U16 Asia Cup setback
“The outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, but I want to acknowledge the incredible sacrifices and resilience these young boys have put in. Their dedication, hard work, teamwork and sacrifices have been inspiring since day one. And with that, I am so PROUD of these boys!” wrote Tenorio.
“This loss doesn’t define us; it’s a stepping stone for greater things ahead. Let’s learn from this and continue to strive for excellence.”
The newly minted Magnolia coach stood by his words when he said he would fight for his boys.
A user by the name of @josecanillas203 commented that Tenorio should have given more opportunities to other players.
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“Makinig din kasi kayo sa fans, hindi ‘yong puro palakasan. Madami naman deserving na mga bata,” the user said.
Tenorio quickly defended his squad, telling the Instagram user to keep quiet if he had nothing good to say.
READ: Gilas Youth faces same situation as its older brothers in Asia Cup
“Kung wala ka namang sasabihing mabuti tungkol sa mga bata, tumahimik ka na lang! ‘Di mo alam ang sakripisyo na ginawa ng mga batang ‘to! Tumahimik ka na lang, parang ‘di ka Pilipino,” wrote Tenorio.
Gilas Pilipinas team manager Richard Del Rosario also came to the aid of Tenorio and the squad in a separate post.
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“Hindi lahat ng bagay napapanood sa TV or YouTube. Hindi nakikita ang sakripisyo ng mga bata tulad ng pagsakay ng angkas habang umuulan makapunta lang sa ensayo,” wrote the Ginebra assistant coach.
“Habang sila ay binabatikos, hawak nila rosaryo bago lumaban…. Lumaban sila para sa Bayan. NO EXCUSES, we lost. A lot of work needs to be done to get back up. Para sa mga genius, tignan niyo na lang ang comment ko sa inyo sa last picture,” he added.
