Thompson Silences Critics With Standout Performance for Gilas

Photo source: FIBA

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone didn’t hold back his praise for Scottie Thompson, his long-time superstar at Barangay Ginebra, following the Philippines’ dominant 93-89 victory over New Zealand in the FIBA Asia Qualifiers.

Cone highlighted Thompson’s evolution into a complete player, showcasing his ability to thrive on the international stage despite doubts early in his career.

“I don’t know if any of you remember that, but a lot of people were saying he can’t play the international game because he can’t shoot,” Cone remarked after the game. “In my mind, there’s never been any doubt, in his mind, there’s never been any doubt.”

Thompson’s stellar play against New Zealand silenced those critics. The former PBA MVP delivered an all-around performance, contributing to Gilas’ first win against the Tall Blacks in FIBA competition.

While towering stars like Justin Brownlee and Kai Sotto grabbed the spotlight with their own blend of all-around brilliance, it was Thompson’s unrelenting hustle and versatility that added another layer to the team’s success.

Thompson finished the game with 12 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, and a +6 in nearly 33 minutes.

“The thing about Scottie is you can look at videos all you want. Until you actually get on the floor and play against him, you don’t realize what he’s doing out there on the floor for you,” Cone emphasized. “In terms of his tremendous rebounding, I think that’s what gets the most credit, but his defense is spot on.”

Thompson’s energy was crucial in turning the game towards Gilas’s favor in the second half. Whether diving for loose balls or sticking to his assignments, he set the tone for a Gilas squad determined to bounce back after disappointing results in recent matches against New Zealand.

“On the defensive side, his hustle is spot on,” Cone added. “He’s really, really worked hard on improving his shot. He’s not a guy you can just step off of anymore, and his ability to get to the rim and create has always been there.”

Thompson has long been known as a “triple-double machine” dating back to his college days at UPHSD in the NCAA, but translating that dominance to the international level required adapting to a higher level of play. For Cone, Thompson’s evolution comes as no surprise, but that doesn’t make his accomplishments any less remarkable.

“To me, it’s not a surprise. But just because it’s not a surprise, doesn’t make it amazing. It’s still amazing, the things he does. It’s not a surprise to us, it’s not a surprise to Kai, and all of his teammates.”

As Gilas Pilipinas looks ahead to tougher challenges, the continued emergence of Thompson as an international-caliber star provides a vital boost to the team’s aspirations. His ability to impact the game beyond the stat sheet – through leadership, grit, and adaptability – underscores why Cone has unwavering faith in his abilities.