Gilas Pilipinas Begins Integrating Quentin Millora-Brown Ahead of FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

Gilas Pilipinas has commenced the integration process for its newly added player, Quentin Millora-Brown, in preparation for his anticipated debut during the upcoming FIBA World Cup Qualifiers slated for November.

Coach Tim Cone acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting, "We have to try to mix QMB into the lineup. He's a young guy, doesn't know the system yet. And we have to make sure we have realistic expectations for him."

Although the team is currently on a break, efforts to familiarize the 6-foot-10 Fil-Am player with the team's system are ongoing even as he remains in Japan. "We've been communicating with him and he's working with Patrick Partosa, our analytics and video guy. They're sending videos back and forth, triangle stuff, so he can probably get a head start," Cone explained.

It remains unclear whether Millora-Brown has officially signed with a team in Japan or is currently competing there. Nonetheless, the coach emphasized the player's enthusiasm, stating, "He is apparently very excited about playing in November."

Gilas Pilipinas is set to commence its World Cup Qualifiers campaign with two matches against Guam — the lowest-ranked team in Group A — scheduled for November 28 away and December 1 at home.

For now, Coach Cone revealed that Millora-Brown will be the sole addition to the carefully selected squad for the upcoming window. "The Guam window will be a time where QMB can really try to integrate into the team. And then we'll look yearend and reassess the team going into the next year and see if there's any more changes beyond Quintin Brown that we might do," he stated.

Additionally, the team is hopeful that Kai Sotto, who is currently rehabilitating from an ACL injury, will recover in time for the second qualifying window early next year. This phase will feature crucial home games against formidable opponents New Zealand on February 26 and Australia on March 1.

The coaching staff remains focused on maximizing team cohesion and performance as the qualifiers approach.