Serbia coach believes Gilas Pilipinas ‘missing some quality’

FOSHAN, China - Serbia head coach Sasha Djordjevic did not mince his words when asked about his thoughts on Gilas Pilipinas following his team’s lopsided victory over the Filipinos Monday.

“I think you showed some talent, some quickness, but obviously you’re missing some quality and these two games are a result of that,” Djordjevic said after Serbia’s 126-67 demolition of Gilas.

Italy handed the over-matched Philippine team a similar blowout earlier in the group phase, winning 108-62.

“Two European top teams who know how to play basketball - tough, physical basketball - that’s the result,” Djordjevic said.

Serbia and Italy both have active NBA players in their respective rosters. The former, ranked no. 4 in the world, won the silver medal in 2014 and were considered title favorites this year.

Gilas head coach Yeng Guiao admitted the two teams belonged to a different tier of talent, skill, and experience compared to teams in Asia.

“We're playing Asian level basketball and competing very well at the Asian level. But, of course, the world level is different,” said Guiao. — DVM, GMA News