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Retired PBA cager Marc Pingris will embrace a new role in Gilas Pilipinas after playing for the country in many international tournaments.

Dubbed by his fans as “Pinoy Sakuragi,” Marc will lend his talent and experience as an assistant coach for the national men's basketball team for the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asia qualifiers.

Marc retired from playing professional basketball in May 2021.

In her Instagram post last February 20, Danica Sotto posted a sweet message to her husband as joins the national team for their preparation.

“Bubble ready na! Nakakapanibago kasi this time, we won't see you play dahil ngayon iba na ang role na gagampanan mo. May God grant you his wisdom and grace,” shared Danica.

“Excited to see you help and support the next generation. We love you so much and we will be praying for the entire GILAS TEAM! #GilasPilipinas #Puso #labanpilipinas @jeanmarc15,” she added.

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A post shared by Danica Sotto-Pingris (@danicaspingris)

The former player-turned-coach also asked the public on his Instagram page to give their unwavering support to the members of Gilas Pilipinas.

“Gilas 2022 suportahan po natin ang atin gilas team! Salamat po mga kabsat! Game na po natin sa feb 24 to 28 mabuhay po kayo! #labanpilipinas #puso,” Marc said.

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A post shared by Marc Pingris (@jeanmarc15)

In a report by Rappler, basketball stars Robert Bolick, Roger Pogoy, Troy Rosario, Poy Erram, Kelly Williams, Gab Banal, and Kib Montalbo were chosen to be part of the 15-man lineup of Gilas Pilipinas.

Also included in the national squad are Dwight Ramos, Thirdy Ravena, Juan Gomez de Liaño, Lebron Lopez, William Navarro, Jaydee Tungcab, Tzaddy Rangel, and naturalized big man Angelo Kouame.

In other news, Marc and Danica are set to mark their 15th wedding anniversary next month, after exchanging “I Dos” in 2007.

Meanwhile, take a look at some of the grand and intimate weddings of popular PBA idols in this gallery.