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Cone Sees Bright Future For Juan GDL In Gilas Return
Photo credit: PBA
National team head coach Tim Cone expressed strong confidence in the future of Juan Gomez de Liano after the guard’s impressive return to the Gilas Pilipinas lineup in the second window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Playing before a packed crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena, Gomez de Liano—now a standout rookie for the Converge FiberXers—delivered 10 points and two assists in the Philippines’ narrow 69–66 loss to New Zealand national basketball team.
Cone regarded the 26-year-old guard as one of the bright spots of the game. He noted that Gomez de Liano had consistently performed strongly during Gilas’ practice sessions leading up to the qualifiers, and his poise in his first national-team outing in nearly four years reflected that steady progress.
The Gilas mentor also sees Gomez de Liano as a long-term piece for the program. Cone believes the game will help him settle into high-pressure situations, especially with the massive crowds and expectations surrounding the national team. With more exposure, he expects the guard to grow into an even more reliable contributor.
Gilas Pilipinas will face another tough challenge as they return to the court on Sunday against Group A leader and undefeated Australia men's national basketball team, once again at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Playing before a packed crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena, Gomez de Liano—now a standout rookie for the Converge FiberXers—delivered 10 points and two assists in the Philippines’ narrow 69–66 loss to New Zealand national basketball team.
Cone regarded the 26-year-old guard as one of the bright spots of the game. He noted that Gomez de Liano had consistently performed strongly during Gilas’ practice sessions leading up to the qualifiers, and his poise in his first national-team outing in nearly four years reflected that steady progress.
The Gilas mentor also sees Gomez de Liano as a long-term piece for the program. Cone believes the game will help him settle into high-pressure situations, especially with the massive crowds and expectations surrounding the national team. With more exposure, he expects the guard to grow into an even more reliable contributor.
Gilas Pilipinas will face another tough challenge as they return to the court on Sunday against Group A leader and undefeated Australia men's national basketball team, once again at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Feb 27, 2026
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