Chot Reyes out as Gilas coach, to focus on 2023 FIBA World Cup buildup

Chot Reyes has stepped down as coach of the Philippine national basketball team.

He posted the announcement on Twitter on Tuesday amid reports that Yeng Guiao will take over the Gilas Pilipinas program permanently.

"Now that the PBA has opened its doors full to the SBP and the national team, it is time for me to step aside and contribute in a different capacity, focusing on the 2023 program," Reyes said.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has already began its buildup for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, which the Philippines will co-host with Indonesia.

Guiao had earlier been tasked to head up the Philippine team in the qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup for September's two-game window, after Reyes was suspended a game for his involvement in Gilas' brawl against Australia last July.

"We wish Coach Yeng and the current team great success," Reyes said.

Guiao got the assignment as he led the Philippines to a fifth place finish in the Asian Games basketball tournament last month, the country's best placing in the quadrennial meet since 2012.

The Philippines will be tested when it takes on Iran on Thursday in Tehran, before battling Qatar in the Philippines on September 17. —JST, GMA News