Tim Cone believes future Gilas 'superstars' Sotto, Tamayo, Amos, Quiambao will still get better

Gilas Pilipinas' latest win that proved the future of the national team is in good hands. 

The Filipinos dominated the visiting Hong Kong, pulling off a masterful 93-54 victory to remain perfect in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers on Sunday behind the stellar outings from young guns Kai Sotto and Carl Tamayo, as well as vital contributions from Kevin Quimbao and Mason Amos. 

No one marvels at this development than head coach Tim Cone, and the multi-titled tactician stressed the younger core will only get better as they move forward in the program.  

"I won’t stop saying this: They are the superstars of this team down the road. They are still learning and feeling their way," Cone said. 

"We’re all coming into the team with different habits, so it’s really trying to get us all on the same page and create the same habits. So we can all play together, winning with each other together."

Sotto flaunted his usual game as he picked up where he left off with a double-double of 12 points and 15 rebounds laced with two assists and two blocks. 

But it was the key plays from Tamayo that made the difference in the lopsided match with the former UP Fighting Maroon and current B. League import pouring in 16 markers, five boards, and one dime in just 17 minutes of action. 

His six straight points in the second quarter allowed the Philippines to stretch the gap against the winless Hong Kong. 

Cone also got quality minutes from collegiate stars Quimbao and Amos. The reigning UAAP MVP tallied eight points, five rebounds, and four assists while Amos buried the win-sealing three-pointer after getting no minutes last game against New Zealand. 

"Remember I told you (Carl) coming out, he got out and hit a three-point shot," Cone said.

"They’re all scorers and that’s what we’re looking for in our young guys. We want to use their total game, and that’s the case with him, Kevin Quiambao, and even Mason Amos."

For Tamayo's part, it's the constant reminders from Cone that have been helping him improve his game in every aspect of it.

"He always talks to me on what should I adjust sa game ko, especially on being more mature, being more relaxed in the game," Tamayo shared.

"That’s the thing na lagi niyang sinasabi sa akin, which I’m trying to improve on. I’m very blessed to have coach Tim as my coach sa national team because he’s guiding me."

—JKC, GMA Integrated News