Williams, Menk and Yap likely to join national team

SMC-Pilipinas is beefing up its pool of players with the addition of Kelly Williams, Eric Menk (199-F-74, college: L.Superior) and James Yap, and has set the Jones Cup competition as the final cutoff date to determine the players to be sent to the FIBA-Asia Olympic qualifier next month in Japan.

Williams personally talked to PBA commissioner Noli Eala Wednesday, giving his commitment to play for the team even if he's to forego his planned US vacation.

Menk and Yap have also been invited to join the training upon the team's return from its training trip in Belgrade, Serbia.

"I'm very happy with these developments specially with Kelly's decision to forego his vacation. It speaks volumes of the man. Kelly showed true sign of commitment to help the cause of the RP team," said Eala.

"I'm also thankful for Menk who manifested excitement and willingness to join the training without guarantee from coach Chot Reyes that he will make the Tokushima competition. Hopefully, James also accepts the invitation to join the training," Eala added.

Eala said Williams, Menk and Yap would likely be tapped for the Jones Cup, giving coach Reyes 14 players at his disposal in the tiring nine-day competition. Tony de la Cruz is likely to be relegated as reserve because of his injury.

"At this time, the Tokushima lineup is still an open field. Players already in the team definitely have the inside track. But at the end of the day, the players in best shape and who could best contribute for the team in Japan are likely to make it," said Eala.

"We're beefing up the team. Hopefully, this adjustment works for the betterment of the team as the Tokushima trip nears," Eala added.

The PBA commissioner expressed satisfaction on the team's Belgrade trip although it caused injuries to De la Cruz, Danny Seigle and Dondon Hontiveros.

Eala said Reyes is planning to use Seigle sparingly in the Jones Cup to preserve him for the 4-Nation Manila Invitational Championship. Seigle is nursing a hamstring pull.

Fil-Am player Gabe Norwood is also proceeding to the Jones Cup although his lawyer has yet to submit complete documents that will certify his Filipino citizenship.

"His papers are lacking but we'll do this properly. We'll not cheat our way to getting someone who's not qualified," Eala said.
Source:asia basket