Slaughter excited seeing great talent in one team

It was a scene born out of a superhero movie, as the country’s best basketball players came together under one roof to start what they hope will be a journey that lands them in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the 2016 Summer Olympics.

In the middle of it, unmistakable with his height, was Cebuano behemoth Greg Slaughter.

Back in the national stable after last suiting up for the Sinag Pilipinas in 2011, the 7-foot center of the Barangay Ginebra Kings by way of the University of the Visayas (UV), could hardly contain his excitement in seeing all this great talent, converging for the common cause.

“It’s nice sharing the floor with the best talent in the country. Definitely different than what you’re normally used to coming in,” said Slaughter to Cebu Daily News the morning after the first practice session of this latest version of the Philippine men’s national basketball squad – dubbed the Gilas Pilipinas.

“These are the biggest threats on the scouting report but now it’s like wow, we’re teammates,” said Slaughter, the enthusiasm palpable in his voice.

After finishing with the silver medal in the 2015 Fiba Asia Men’s Championship to hosts China, the Philippines must now go through the long route to Rio and will compete against some of the very best national teams in the world in a qualifier set for July of next year.

With such daunting odds, the PBA threw their 100% support to the national squad, thus setting the stage for the likes of veterans LA  Tenorio, Jeff Chan, Japeth Aguilar, Ryan Reyes and Gilas first-timer Ian Sangalang to finally show up for practice on Monday at the Meralco Gym.

They were joined by recent Gilas members Marc Pingris, Gabe Norwood, Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo, Sonny Thoss and Calvin Abueva. Also present were Troy Rosario, Matt Ganuelas-Rosser, JC Intal, Gary David and Dondon Hontiveros. Of the 17 players who were listed down on head coach Tab Baldwin’s wishlist, only Ranidel de Ocampo was absent due to a back injury he recently incurred.

Slaughter described the initial practice as “cool.” “The vibe was good. Coach Tab (Baldwin) really let us know what he expects and what kind of coach he is. We mostly were introduced to him and his philosophy.”

But the evening’s biggest – in the literal sense of the word – highlight was the sight of the country’s two towers – Slaughter and fellow Cebuano, the PBA’s reigning MVP June Mar Fajardo – finally getting to team up.

“It was cool. We got to do some drills together! It’s just nice seeing a different side than what we’re normally used to.”