Chot says he'd rather he get jeered instead of the players as Gilas home crowd boos coach

The Gilas Pilipinas players received the warmest welcome from their fellow Filipinos watching their game against Saudi Arabia on Monday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

But the case was different for national team head coach Chot Reyes.

Being the last one called during the team and players introductions, Reyes was booed by the crowd in Pasay.

He again was booed by the crowd when he was shown on the screen for the second time.

Boos from the crowd when head coach Chot Reyes was shown on the screen | @jk_carandangpic.twitter.com/KvNPiaaazN

— GMA Sports (@gmasportsph) August 29, 2022

In the post-game conference, Reyes reiterated that the head coaching job was his way of serving the country.

"The relationship, the bonds that we built, I'm willing to take all of that s—t."

Reyes said as long as he can inspire one or two individuals, then he is willing to take all of the negativity.

"I'm sure you know how many haters I have. I know that there are also supporters that may not be as vocal, but as long as I can inspire one or two individuals, then it's all worth it," he added.

"As long as we have the players together in that locker room," Reyes said. "For me, I'd much rather get booed by the crowd than the players get booed by the crowd."

"Boo-hin ny'o na ako nang todo, pero suportahan n'yo ang players. Murahin n'yo na ako, i-bash n'yo na ako, basta suportahan n'yo ang team."

Coach Chot Reyes on boos from the crowd: I-boo n’yo na ako, huwag lang ang players. Suportahan n’yo sila. | via @jk_carandangpic.twitter.com/AGEKaGXlKT

— GMA Sports (@gmasportsph) August 29, 2022

Jordan Clarkson and Dwight Ramos also defended Reyes, saying they are a part of one team and asked for support for the team.

Earlier, Jordan Clarkson defended Coach Chot Reyes: We’re one team. | via @jk_carandangpic.twitter.com/yjp2no6M4z

— GMA Sports (@gmasportsph) August 29, 2022

Gilas earlier defeated Saudi Arabia, 84-46.

—JMB, GMA News