National coach Chot Reyes said that he is stepping down as Gilas Pilipinas head coach.
“I hate using the word resign because I am not a quitter. I would like to emphasize to everyone who is asking for that,” he said on the heels of the Philippines’ 96-75 win over China in the 2023 Fiba World Cup on Saturday night. “But at the same time, I signed up to do a job and we did not deliver the result. So I think it’s time to step aside and allow the SBP (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas) to make a decision for the good of the team and the program.”
“Through all the preparation and all these times, I’ve always said to judge us on our performance in the World Cup—regardless of what happened between the time I was appointed and today, I said judge us by our performance,” he added.
“And obviously, we did not perform. And like I said the last game, I take full accountability and because of that it is time for me to step aside.”
Reyes said he has informed SBP president Al Panlilio and Philippine Basketball Association chair Ricky Vargas of his decision.
“I’ve informed Mr. Panlilio and Mr. Vargas. But there’s no decision as of now, as far as I know. Before the game, I told them this was going to be my last game already. Before the game, I said, regardless of the result,” he said.
The development should put a serious dent in the national basketball program, especially with 21 days left until the Asian Games that China will host.
“I have no idea,” Reyes said when asked about how his decision will impact the preparations for the Asian Games.
“I think it’s time for somebody for someone else. You are all clamoring for some names, so maybe it’s time,” he added.
Whether Reyes’ decision is going to be accepted by the national federation remains to be seen. He has since said during the game against Angola on Thursday that he has been in touch with the SBP.
“They know my feelings. We’re in constant communication,” but not without noting that his future “is at the hands of the federation.”
Reyes said that the emotional toll on him and his family led him to such a decision.
“After a while, it was just too heavy,” he said. “It was just too painful, too tough, just to be very honest. There were also really hurtful words said. I don’t deserve it. My family doesn’t deserve it.”