ONE learns valuable lessons even in defeat.
Although Gilas Pilipinas failed to clinch a spot in this month’s Tokyo Games, center Kai Sotto said he learned a lot and will relish his experience playing in the FIBA Olympic qualifying tournament.
“It’s either you win, or you learn. This time I learned a lot of things and that’s a win for me,” Sotto said on his Instagram account.
“Grateful for this experience and thankful to be part of this amazing team. #parasabayan #puso,” he added.
The all-amateur Philippine five kissed its Olympic hopes goodbye after losing its matches in Group A play in the qualifiers in Belgrade, Serbia last week.
Not given much chance against powerhouse foes, Gilas nearly did the improbable but fell to world No. 5 Serbia 76-83 last July 1.
The nationals had a chance to keep its Tokyo bid alive but absorbed a 67-94 loss to Dominican Republic the following day.
The 7-foot-3 Sotto, who is set to suit up for Adelaide in the National Basketball League of Australia, said going up against the Serbs and Dominicans would certainly make Gilas better.
