Monday, April 25, 2011

Gilas Pilipinas in the PBA

It's always difficult to sleep after losing a game because of all these random thoughts and undesirable memories of the game, more so being eliminated from a possible finals appearance. And since many of you requested, I decided to just blog.

First, I'd like to thank all those who shared their very positive comments on my previous blog entry entitled 'A Moment of Conversion'. It's been a while since i received so many comments, partly I guess because most chose to send me a message through twitter. It would be great if you can post your comments through this blogspot so that others may read them as well. This can be part of your apostolate :)

Now , let's move on to basketball... (Warning: Do not continue reading if you are not a Gilas, Ginebra or Philippine basketball fan)

I never thought I would again feel the similar pain from a loss experienced during my UAAP days playing for Ateneo, but apparently I am wrong. The 3 most painful defeats in my post-college career with the National Team Gilas Pilipinas are the 2010 Dubai International (losing to Lebanon in the semis), 2010 Asian Games (bowing out in the quarters to Korea) and to my surprise , this 2011 PBA Commissioners Cup (to Ginebra in Game 4).

I'm sure many of you might be surprised as well, thinking that Gilas is only a guest team in the tournament and this is only a domestic commercial tournament. True... but I guess the primary reason is because we wanted to win so bad and we knew we could have done so if we played better and more consistently down the stretch, especially in the semis. And for me personally, I may never get another chance to win a PBA Championship.

Why did we want to win so bad? Of course there's always that competitive spirit in us to be the best team out there. But really, we wanted to earn the support and approval of the entire basketball community and Filipino basketball fans that Gilas is worthy indeed to represent our country in the FIBA tournaments. Actually, some experts tell us that we've overachieved already, but honestly, I beg to disagree because I know what the team is really capable of doing.

We had a great run in the eliminations , with a record of 7-2 , finishing top 2 and earning the outright semis berth. Both losses were in overtime and lacking in manpower. 1 more win could have changed the story, but that's done.


Semifinals vs Ginebra

Unfortunately in the semis, we had to face a very formidable team with a good mix of veteran superstars, solid role players, an excellent import and a smart coaching staff. Not to mention that they have the biggest, most loyal set of supporters and that's where they draw their strength from. It was a very physical and rough series, no question. They made sure that we knew who the real veterans were inside the court. Their coaching staff knew exactly what they wanted to do, stay home with the wingmen and risk the outside shots from our big men. But anyway, I don't want to talk about the technical aspects too much. Who knows, we might face them again.

I haven't watched the replay of Game 4, but I remember we played well and had control of the game for around 27 minutes and led by as much as 15 points. Then all of a sudden, we didn't know what hit us. Poor defense, execution and rebounding led to easy fast break points and 3 pointers. In short, they played excellent and we didn't. This is when the loss in Game 1 will haunt you. We should have closed out that game better. It would have changed the complexion of the series.

But anyway, as the old wise men would say, learn from it! The PBA is our training ground in preparation for the ultimate goal for the Olympic qualifier this September in Wu Han, China. For sure, we have learned a lot of new tactics in our stint here in addition to being mentally tough and playing with a lot of poise when the games were getting 'heated'.


Thank You

I mentioned this through my twitter account, but once again I'd like to thank all Team Pilipinas supporters who followed and cheered for us in the game venues, at home or even in foreign countries via FB or livestreaming links! Through your words of encouragement & support via twitter or through other means, it is much easier to move on and keep fighting knowing that you're there behind us, win or lose! Sabi niyo nga, it's not always about winning. What's most important is that we display unselfishness, class and sportsmanship, while playing our HEARTS out! And... offer everything up to God, who is the source of all our talents & blessings (I think this beautiful reminder extends outside of sports and applies to everyone of us in whatever field)

To the PBA, a big thank you for this learning experience! But more importantly, thank you for bringing the National team closer to the Filipino people! Most of our games are abroad and not many Filipinos get to watch the team compete until now. In fact, I've noticed a significant increase in Gilas supporters in the venue and through the internet.

Rest assured, Coach Rajko, the coaching staff, the players, including the management, are all committed to continue improving through rigid training and international exposure in order to bring back the respect to Philippine basketball and give us more reason to become proud Pinoys!

Maraming Salamat ulit! Go Team Pilipinas! Go Pinoy!

Oh by the way, Happy Easter!!


Chris

P.S. We have a 3 day rest and then we report back to practice in preparation for the FIBA Asia Champions Cup (This is not yet the Olympic qualifier) which will be held in MANILA from May 28 to June 6 at the Ultra in Pasig. 10 teams from Asia will participate, mostly club teams composed of national players plus 2 imports. Sana sama-sama na tayong lahat sa tournament na ito (as promised by the Ginebra fans after the series, I'll keep that in mind :) )!

158 comments:

Jamie said...

you guys fought a good fight. that's all a true fan could ever ask for. again, win or lose, GO TEAM PILIPINAS :)

ISTAN the ASIAN said...

i read ur blog as one of my blog reading marathon tonight... one of those inspiring things I've had my eyes on, though I should be out partying here in #boracay, and hotel stranded because of the rain.. had nothing to relly regret. Kaya yan chris! We all have tough times.. and yes, POSITIVITY.

ahly said...

Nothing to be ashamed of, GILAS!You played well in the whole conference.Alam ko masakit kasi andun na eh, malapit na pero nawala pa.But for me, you guys proved to all the Filipino people that you are worthy and deserving to represent our country.You proved that eto na yung Gilas ngayon, kayang kayang makipagsabayan sa mga PBA superstars!

Goodluck Gilas!Godbless!

Anonymous said...

Sir Chris ... thanks for the sportsmanship you've shown ... for me and the legions of fans of ginebra , that series surely gave us the nerves that will prove your readiness of int'l basketball ... and we apologize to some maybe trashtalks you're team (our team pala) had recieved ... gudlak na lang sa next competitions at asahan nyo na mas marami pa sa ginebra fans ang susuporta sa smart gilas pilipinas ...

Anonymous said...

for two yirs in a row...i never missed any of ur games hir in dubai...i was one of those "kabayans" hu screamed out loud for u in AL AHLI CLUB...im a baracael fanatic(wyl havin dis comment im wearinn d warmer mac gave me ryt after ur finals game wid egypt)...but among ol d gilas players i can say na ikaw ung pnaka may puso maglaro(i said pinaka ha palibhasa ksi KAPUSO ka hehe)..cguro nga dahil ikaw ang captain...captain lion heart ika nga nila....ung puso na un dala mo until sa blog mo na to...i may say mabigat ang feelin after readin ksi ramdam ko kung gano kasakit mula mismo sa sumulat..lalo na sa sinabi mo na personally bka di mo na ever ma try maging champion sa PBA....a lost is a lost how ever we see it frustrating tlaga pero d gud side of it naipa ramdam naman namin cguro sa inyo kung gano namin kau kamahal at kasuportado bilang mga fans nyo so no choice tayo but to take d positive side of it....ung pagmamahal namin sa inyo..ung suporta namin sa inyo eh enaf nang motivation pra lalo kaung ganahan at ma inspire ksi bilang mga fans yun lng nmn ang kaya naming ibigay sa inyo(dats aside sa S.T. Dupont lighter na gift ko kay mac hehehe)nothin much to comment we love u(dats in behalf of my flatmates hir in dubai)BeST of luck...........oyet

anne said...

i watched your game kanina. and i must say, your team played very well against a team who has lots of experience than yours. i'm sure, nahirapan din sila. so.. don't lose hope, keep on playing. winning isn't everything, they say. :D

JM Misajon said...

I admire your passion and love for basketball...Frustration may sink in from time to time but GOD knows that you guys did your best...and we are more than proud to be Filipinos with the likes of you and your teammates representing the country in international tournaments...Your parents couldn't get any prouder having you as a son...More than courage, you have this undying spirit that lies in the abyss of your heart and soul...and with that, I bow to you...Great Courage and wisdom from you Chris...Best of luck in the FIBA Qualifying Cup and we are here to support you guys come what may...Kudos for a great stint in the PBA!☺ FTW Team Pilipinas! Mabuhay Kayo!☺

Aimee14 said...

It is indeed a very emotional Chris here. I was not a fan of Smart Gilas to start with but I've always been a fan of whoever team represents Pilipinas in international competition. I was able to follow the basketball career of most of Gilas players from your UAAP days like Barocca, Baracael, Casio and of course you. I was also hurt when you guys lost last night, and it was because I ended up liking Gilas players. I'm a fan now. You're right in saying that you were blessed to play with veteran players like most PBA teams. One thing for sure, (not only BGK fans) the whole PBA avid fans will support you. I personally hope you all learned from your experiences which would certainly be your weapon to make the whole Filipino community proud. We are all behind you Gilas.

Lea Adelle said...

It is not about who won. It is about the lessons you've learned. For me, Smart Gilas is still the best team ever. Win or loss, Smart Gilas is worthy of being the national team. There is something special with every member of the team. That's why all of you had been chosen to be part of the team. And I've watched the game yesterday and you, guys, did great. I saw the effort and the determination to win. Job well done and wish you good luck on the FIBA Asia Champions Cup. God bless. :)

kristinecd said...

i'm not a super fan but i love basketball... i think things happen for a reason naman... just go with the flow... certainly, bigger things will come and happen... godbless you more!!!! love your blog!!=)

borly said...

Hey Chris, losing is never really easy especially if you've given it your all. Smart Gilas' partcipation in this PBA Cup has brought in a new dimension to Philippine basketball and has inspired a new generation of fans. To most of us, you're already the champions, the Philippines' champions.

The country is very fortunate to have a team like Gilas and a captain like you. We're all here for you on the road to FIBA.

berd_derd said...

bawi lang s FIBA!!!!!=) GO GILAS!!!make FILIPINOS PROUD =)

dillemmaruth said...

I watched the game last night and I really felt proud that people like you are giving your all to bring glory to the Philippines. You dove for every lose ball, not minding the pain of going head to head with players who are heavier/taller than you and played as if your life depended on it. Good job Chris! God bless! =)

Jonna Marie Misajon said...

I admire your passion and love for basketball...Frustration may sink in from time to time but GOD knows that you guys did your best...and we are more than proud to be Filipinos with the likes of you and your teammates representing the country in international tournaments...Your parents couldn't get any prouder having you as a son...More than courage, you have this undying spirit that lies in the abyss of your heart and soul...and with that, I bow to you...Great Courage and wisdom from you Chris...Best of luck in the FIBA Qualifying Cup and we are here to support you guys come what may...Kudos for a great stint in the PBA! FTW Team Pilipinas! Mabuhay Kayo!

~iamchingorgeous~ said...

I've seen the efforts of your team and i believe that there's something in store for all of you guys. i know it upsets to lose a very important game but i guess it serves as a training ground for you to be strong and wise. God will surely give you the blessings at the right time. I believe in your strengths, dedication, determination and motivation to become the winner of all time. :) Go SMART GILAS!

Mariko Celis said...

Although Gilas didn't get the chance to win in your last game and compete in the championship, you are the champions in every Filipinos believing in you.. Champions in hearts of every Gilas fans (including me)..
You are on your way to FIBA na kuya Chris.. just do your best and we (fans) will support you and the Gilas team all the way.. WE BELIEVE IN YOU, WE BELIEVE IN GILAS!

erica said...

Chris,

It's that time of the year again where you keep on standing tall despite the pain.

Of all your games, this for me is the most heartbreaking. I know you wanted it so bad-or in this case, I wanted you and the team to win this so we can finally show the PBA fans what the National team can do. And I know a win would not only gain the respect of the fans, but will also boost each player's future in playing in the professional arena besides the fact that it will be a monumental personal achievement for everyone. In as much as I wanted to think of this as a learning experience, this for me, personally, is the hardest to accept.

Just like MVP said, "Hindi pwede ang OK lang." (i think im paraphrasing here). My point? Keep on dreaming Chris. Give it a few days and you will find the wisdom behind this situation, the moral lesson after the adversity. I'll be praying for your physical and emotional healing. I believe in the team and the coaching staff. I believe in you! Rest assured that win or lose, I will keep on supporting my favorite athlete no matter what.

God gave this situation to you because He knows you can rise above this.

I am proud of Smart Gilas. Thank you for reaching out to us and for the continuous appreciation. Thank you for sacrificing your time and talents for the pride of the Filipino people.


-erica

Anonymous said...

Focus on the next we, the fans, will always be behind you. Be it in success or not. God is Good all the tme

marxman88 said...

Nice blog ^_^ u did a good job chris. .next time u and ur team can do it.It's okay to lose a game, just don't lose the lesson.Winning is not everything, but the effort to win. .good luck :)

Anonymous said...

Chris don't mind those people pulling the SGP team down. Their just jelous to see that their favorite PBA players are not included in our national team. Always remember even though there are haters of the team, SGP still have so many supporters. There's a reason why the team lose against ginebra and you'll see it in the future, and there's a reason why you guys are playing for our national team. MAKE A DIFFERENCE, BRING PRIDE AND GLORY FOR OUR COUNTRY! We PINOYS specially TIUNATICS are just here to support SMART GILAS!

kit said...

It's alright Chris. I know this experience has made your team more mature. I'm excited to see how well you'll do in the qualifiers for the Olympics. All the Filipinos would be cheering for one team now!!! God bless!

Yukie Ito said...

I like your spirit Chris! Whether you win or lose, our support is still in Smart Gilas(coz this team is super great and we see a lot of potential in here)! I will pray for the team's success! and i'm looking forward watching you again live! ahahahaha.

Anonymous said...

Go Gilas!

Unknown said...

I watched last night's Game and I must say that Gilas really played well against Ginebra! Honestly saying, I am a certified Ginebra fan together with my father and younger brother. I salute you Gilas for giving an exciting and excellent game against Ginebra. We'll definitely see you again in PBA. But now, please do your best to win in FIBA Tournaments! GO TEAM PILIPINAS! :)

dAn1027 said...

Anuman ang nangyari sa PBA stint of Smart Gilas, i still believe on YOU that u'll bring back the glory for the Philippines in international basketball. Let us all dream & believe that WE can do it! May God bless all your upcoming tournaments. Mabuhay ang Gilas, Mabuhay ang Pinoy!

Danielle said...

A relief for me. You have no idea how much the game makes me sad, up to now actually. This blog help me move on, knowing that you're okay and focus for the FIBA tournament. We just want you to know that Gilas fans and now the whole Philippines are one in supporting the National team!

Smart Gilas has nothing to prove for you guys are obviously prepared and strong enough to face other countries. Maybe PBA is not yours to take, maybe it's the big thing. Maybe the whole world! God has better plans. So do not lose hope. Filipinos are now behind your back :)

@itsmejane_ said...

I FEEL YOU.. I CRIED PA NGA EH:( IM ONE OF SMART GILAS PILIPINAS AVID FAN!!! WE WILL STILL SUPPORT YOU.... GIVEN A CHANCE TO BE IN THE SEMIS THATS OVERACHIEVEMENT ALREADY=) GOD's plan na siguro yung hindi ninyo pagkapanalo para mapaghanda ninyo ang FIBA !!!=)) GO GILAS PILIPINAS!!!! kayang-kaya yan!!!

Unknown said...

im a ginebra fan, ginebra is ginebra, may sariling fans na tlaga yan pero kapag GILAS laban sa ibang bansa, very much sure, buhos ang suporta namin sa inyo,. asahan nyo yan. Good luck to you and the rest of your team!

irennova said...

chris its ok, if you've lost the game... still my love and support for you and the whole team is soooo great.. i would still support and proud that you were the representative of the country for international basketball competition.. <>

Anonymous said...

HATS OFF!
Ginawa nyo naman p ang lahat.

And as what u've said.you all learned from it.
Keep it up!God bless yah all:)

all out support from Negrosanon Fans.We may not there physically but we've cheered out loud in live streaming, in our homes. Etc.

Keep the fAITH. GO GILAS :)

Unknown said...

Hi Chris! Ika nga nila, kahit gano kataimtim mong idalangin na sana manalo kayo, kung di talaga para sa inyo, hindi mangyayari pero kung para sa inyo, mangyayari. Anyways, masarap manalo kapag ang tinalo mong kuponan ay alam mong may laban at hindi naman masama kung matalo, kung alam nyo namang ginawa nyo ang lahat, nagkataon lang na mas naging epektibo ang laro nila. At sa huli, ang importante may natutunan sa laban.

Unknown said...

This why I love you, Chris-- you never do anything half-heartedly. Mediocrity is not in your vocabulary. Your box scores are not always a reflection of your passion, drive and desire to excel. And on top of this is that level of fairness and sportsmanship you demand of yourself and of your teammates which you understandably expect from your opponents. You are a true leader and gentleman on and off the court.

As a fan, I would love to see you play more. But after such an emotional series with the leagues most popular and infamous team (how something can be both popular and infamous baffles me), I think that I would rather have you retire as Captain of the National Team than deal with the possibility of cheering for you as a Gin King! Haha!

Continue to work hard and do everything ad majorem Dei gloriam.

Anonymous said...

i love u chris!!!!

Anonymous said...

go team pilipinas

Anonymous said...

Chris ,sa mga sinabi mo sa blog mo,without a doubt,ikaw na nga nag hninhintay ng PBA matagal na,pwera drama I have never seen a player like you since the 80's ,I think you are officially the next star of the PBA,ikaw na nga ang next Jaworski.

bebz said...

will definitely miss you guys..you are already making us proud..

Dominic said...

Congrats, Chris and Team Pilipinas for a great showing in the PBA. I'm sure the team learned a lot, which will prove valuable in the upcoming tournaments! More power!

alexis said...

Hey Chris! :) What can I say? I really felt your sadness with what happened to that PBA game versus Ginebra. I saw that game via television and I witnessed how hard you played. One of my cousins even gave a comment "bakit sinahod si Chris Tiu?" That is when you fell on the ground upon trying to block an opponent. I'm not so good with the technical side so I will just focus on the motivational part. I hope I can stress my points here in two points. First, I really admire your leadership in the Gilas team. Team Captains are usually the players who mind the competitors’ strengths and weaknesses but never appreciate them. But with you, it’s so inspiring that you can really value the things that you guys learned from every game you had with them. Second, let me share to you what one of my business mentors told me which I think we can relate to basketball. He said: (1) “tough times never last, but tough people do”: you’ve mentioned about those games that gave you pains which could have changed the history of Smart Gilas. I really sensed your sincerity in aiming for better status compared to now but it’s already a spilled milk. Charging it to experience and focusing on learning will make things lighter. (2) “Work now so that when you play, you will really play”: I know that all athletes undergo several or series of trainings just to enhance their skills. For me personally, I can attest to everyone how rigid your trainings are since I happen to attend some them. Your role as the leader of the team is also commendable because of the obvious team work despite inter-cultural differences issues. (3) “It’s not how fast you start but how well you finish”: Of course you have the approval of the entire Philippine Nation! It’s a no brainer not support our national team. Perhaps, the reason why people don’t seem to be so into Gilas now is because yeah it’s the PBA and they have their respective teams that they support for ages already but in a different scale (International Competitions) I strongly believe that all Filipinos who are basketball fanatics will unite and cheer their hearts out. I won’t be surprised if I see big cards again with statements like “Oh My Tiuperman” and “I do, Dylan Ababou” similar to our UAAP days. I know how frustrating that was, having a good record but suddenly things became uncontrollable. Don’t worry, any average reasonable person feels the same if encountered with such experience. Competing with the PBA veterans is a big no joke but kudos for the entire team for withstanding the pressure. For as long as you know that you are playing for Him, I guess you don’t have to assess that much if the crowd supports our team because like what we hear each time, “If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31). You always thank people for everything, so on their behalf let me thank you for practicing the true meaning of sportsmanship. Some people does not like basketball because of its physicality and I think that is really part or added spice in the sport but though exhausting, you still manage to smile and shake the hands of your opponents. Honestly, I feel so guilt already because of the sports psych stuff. I’ve been working with some psychologists already but it seems that time is really not amending but don’t worry, I’ll work as fast as I could so we can start. The main goal of the program is to make sure that both defeats and triumphs are transformed into motivations. You we’re the one who gave access to me in the team and I really am grateful for this opportunity. My pleasure to be of service to the national team. FIBA is next so you better be in good shape for so many basketball enthusiasts are excited to cheer for their “Tiuperman” and the rest of the members of team. Congratulations for a job well done! God bless you.
P.S.
The basketball hard court smiles whenever you do so please don’t stop. Relax, enjoy the game and be an athlete of Christ. See you soon!  - alexis 

Unknown said...

ginebra fans will surely support the national team this time. ofcoz we are pinoys!

Berlyn said...

Nice article!
Indeed, playing for PBA makes the national team more familiar and closer to Filipinos, basketball fans to be exact.

What happened in PBA, charge it to experience. ☺
For every thing we lose, we will gain something even better. Gilas lose the chance to win the PBA championship but you guys earn our respect and acquire lessons that will surely help the team in the future.
BGK fans are Gilas fans. No more booos from the barangay, time to cheer and support the national team. Team Pilipinas for the win. :D


PS.
In fairness, kinabahan kami (BGK fans) sa inyo. :P

shylou said...

hi chris..ilan beses ko pina ulit ulit basahain itong blog. i can really feel your sadness You really plaed well, smart gilas give a good fight against ginebra,, Im a great fan of yours. pero Bgk KASI ANG KALABAN NYO EH..SORRY CHRIS i cheer for them from game 1-4 i watched live sa araneta..everytime ronald tubid my love intentionally or unintenionally hurt you nasasaktan ako for you..i know your capability lagi namin sinusindan ng sister ko ang mga laro nyo we watch QTV 11 AT PINAGPUPUYATN PA..kaya i know n magaling tlga kayo..chris dont lose hope i know your ready for your games internationally..always count my support. God bless

Beckie Talactac said...

kuya, ginawa niyo naman po lahat e. pinagppray ko din po lahat ng games niyo. naprove niyo na din naman po na worth it kayo maging representative ng Pilipinas, kayo lang po ang nakatalo satalk 'n text this conference diba.. :)) goodluck po sa FIBA. promise to watch and support you all the way. :)

Pattyp. said...

Yay, you heeded my request for a PBA-related blog!

I was as upset as you were (or maybe even more) while watching the game, especially the latter part when Tubid started hitting all those treys, etc, but this entry is just so well-written I have actually forgotten how sad I was (and I'm not even kidding).

As you've said, it's done, the story has been published. We may re-read it all we want but we can never re-write it. It may not have been a beautiful, happy ending for Gilas in the PBA, but we all know (including coach Jong) that you guys were a pain in the ass for BGK, and yes, you gave them a hard time out there. But it was simply meant for them.

You have earned the respect of every Filipino basketball believer with the talent that you've showcased.

God speed with the FIBA games. Will try my best to watch live.

We love you, Chris!

Gilas all the way!

Anonymous said...

I've been a Chris Tiu Fan since his Ateneo days and i will continue to cheer and support him through and through. I watched their games vs ginebra and i cant help but admire him and the rest of the team for playing with all their hearts. Go Gilas...Go Chris!!! I'll be there to support you in your next games...

Chii Tseng said...

I was also saddened by what happened last night pero okey lang. Atleast kahit papaano na-practice kayo 'di ba? And you learned. Always remember that your fans are only here for you. Especially ME! I'm your fan for almost 4 years. :)

Anonymous said...

to our national team:

wag kayo madismaya kung natalo man kayo sa semi-final. to us you are still our national team and we will support you all the way. i am a ginebra fan but i am also your big fan especially when you are carrying our flag in international competetion. good luck to you all! we are here to support you all the way....mabuhay kayong aming national team at all other philippines teams! mabuhay

Anonymous said...

you did play well.. and we are proud of Gilas!!!

Anonymous said...

well, sad for the Gilas team. i'm a Ginebra fan here, we'll surely cheer OUR Gilas team in the upcoming international tournaments. all the best and keep your heads up. Jhelmmy :D

Unknown said...

Hi Chris,I'm not really a basketball fan but after watching you guys play here in Dubai, I've been such an avid supporter. I know it could have been better if you qualify for the championship but for me, you guys played well and you've proven to a lot of basketball fanatics that Gilas has a lot to offer. Many people were impressed with the team's performance, especially since it's your first PBA stint, but you guys made it to the Semis. Just learn from the experience and I hope to see you guys play when we have our vacation this coming December. Goodluck on the upcoming FIBA Asia Champions Cup, I'll miss watching you guys, I guess I have to wait till next month to see all of you play again.

Unknown said...

You will always stay as a Champion in our hearts. We will always believe in you and will always support you in everything you do. May God bless you always Chris. Keep smiling :))

Anonymous said...

A Ginebra fans here, and we will definitely support your team on your game this May 28..Go Team Pilipinas, our Nation's Pride. :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Kuya Chris :) Ikaw na po ata ang nakilala ko npakahumble na tao :) Super bait mo po :) Don't worry as promised by the Ginebra fans (isa na po ako dun) We'll support Smart Gilas Pilipinas 101% :)May God bless you always :)

--Denden--

P-chy (crazypeach) said...

Hope you are feeling better now. I know it may hurt at first but in the long run you'll realize that this is just a step you guys need to take to go for the BIG WIN! And we'll support you guys all the way to the olympic dream! That's fate!

CHEERS to the whole team! It was really nice to see you guys play in the PBA. First of all I never enjoyed the PBA and didn't really have the energy to watch it until you guys came in the scene. I'm sure a lot of people share the same sentiments with me. The PBA should also be thankful for having you. I'm sure you gained more fans here in the Philippines. And you guys proved that the national team is truly a force to reckon with even against Pros. All of you are young and that means there is so much more you guys can offer! We are so proud of all of you!

Thank you also for playing by HEART. That made us love you guys more.

I wish for you success in the future games you'll be having and will continue praying for the whole team!

Go SMART GILAS!

Smile naman diyan! (^_^)

Sha Inah Bagagonio said...

Ah, your blog was touching :))) I am really sad about your loss with the BGK, :( but with the attitude you showed,you proved to us that you Smart Gilas guys really deserved the alot of respect and you deserved to represent our country! =))) We w'll never get tired of supporting you! Bring us the Pinoy Pride! :)) Go Gilas! Goodluck sa FiBA, I know you'll win. :D Godbless. Ü

Anonymous said...

chris,

your post really show a very admirable attitude after loosing a tough game. team pilipinas is fortunate to have you as their captain. your optimism can be channeled to your teammates and hopefully in the near future will lead the team into a successful bid in the most important tournament.

as a loyal gilas follower, your PBA stint is a success for me. though the team didn't make it the finals, you guys have achieved the goals you've set in playing in the pro league. like many filipino basketball fans have seen the gilas team play competitively against the local superstars and in the process gained there support and respect. in addition, the lessons and the experiences attained strengthens the team and will be very much useful in the up coming international competitions.

i am looking forward to the team pilipinas in the fiba asia champions cup and in the fiba asia championship for men.

god bless... pilipinas! ahoo!

marjee ^_^

Anonymous said...

I believe that you already have the support and approval of the entire basketball community and Filipino basketball fans, Cris. Perhaps you didn't notice that the fans who watched your last semis game with Ginebra stood up and gave you guys an appreciative applause after the final buzzer. Yes, they were Gilas and Ginebra fans alike. That, in itself, should tell you that after a heated semis series against the "people's team", there was no longer Gilas or Ginebra fans -- just Filipinos wishing you well in your coming international competitions. I wish you and the rest of the Gilas team the best. Make us proud. Our prayers are with you. BTW, I am a solid Ginebra fan. More importantly, a Filipino ;-)

Anonymous said...

no.1 fan ako ng ginebra bec.of caguioa at super idol ko nmn c chris tiu!guzto k sna ginebra at gilas ang mkapxok s finals kso hndi pde kc cla mgkalabn s semi finals, kylngn my isang matalo and that is gilas.pro pra skn gilas is still the best team!kc ntalo nla ang ibng PBA stars,alm nmn ntn pg PBA ka mga professional n ung player nun.eh ang gilas hndi nmn cla PBA pro ngwa nlng mkpgsbayan s ibng PBA stars!hbng nglalaro cla npncn ko ung pagiging sports nla,like douthit kht anung gwn s knya hndi xa napipikon.dhil s pinakita nlang good attitude and also a good basketball player,they rili deserve to be called the Nation's Pride!!just alwayz be Yourself!!gudluck s next game niyo!be proud that you are a Filipino!!!were here to support u!specially mga tiunaticz!!!were always here to support our idol Chris Tiu!!!
To ginebra,ang galing niyo,bumalik n nga ung never say die nyo!!!gudluck s wednesday talunin nyo ang talk n text ha!luv u caguioa!!!


-joie mhee

Anonymous said...

nice post!

jo said...

Honestly, I cried last night.
Because i'm confident that gilas will win.
maybe god has a plan for gilas.
last weekend, habang nag iistation of the cross kame, i include gilas especially chris in my prayers na sana manalo kayo at mawala na injuries mo
it's better na rin na nangyare yun, para the team can get
rest and prepare for the fiba tournaments. but sayang din kasi nung first half kontrolado niyo na yung game. T_T. You played it well and the team played it fair and clean.
anyways thank you po for keep inspiring us.
Every time my volleyball team loss, i just always remember this, and i just want to share it with you
“Winning isn't everything, but the will to win is everything.” Losing isn't something that I can just brush off and fake a smile to hide my frustration. but It can be my will and determination that I can use to learn again and be a better player." =)

i will always support chris tiu and gilas.. =) god bless

Unknown said...

Hi Chris, kudos to you and the team!

Smart Gilas truly deserves to be Team Pilipinas. The passion and composure you showed in the Commissioner's Cup, indeed proved you worthy of the name and earned you thousands of supporters. :)

Looking forward to your games in FIBA. I know Gilas will make the country prouder. Hindi kami magsasawang sumigaw para sa inyo. Suporta all the way! :D

ghel47 said...

it is now time for us(Ginebra fans) to cheer the SMART GILAS PILIPINAS team!
you did great, you gave Ginebra a hard time and sure aq na marami kayong natutunan sa series vs Ginebra at ganun din sila.
pinakaba nyo rin kaming mga Ginebra fans :)
so keep up the good work and we will be praying for the success of our National team.
God bless you and the whole team :)

Janine de Gracia said...

Chris,

Inabangan ko talaga ang laban ng Ginebra at Gilas dahil favorite team ko ang Ginebra at favorite player kita. Maganda ang pinakita ng Team Pilipinas. Nahirapan din ang Ginebra sa inyo. Gilas really improve a lot at nakakapanghinayang din na di kayo nakapasok sa finals pero ang mahalaga naman sa huli ay kung ano ang nagain at natutunan diba? Walang masama sa matalo, it will make a player strong and determine to win more games. Mas nakatulong ang experience sa PBA para sa mga upcoming games ninyo. Proud po ako sa iyo dahil pinakita mo ang determination at passion sa bawat laro. Keep it up! Win or lose, dito lang po kaming fans mo. Go Team Pilipinas! :))

Anonymous said...

Alam niyo kahit na hindi kayo nanalo, tod0-todo pa rin ang support ko sa inyo. Someday, you'll all grow up. Go Team Pilipinas.

calvinkirk said...

Great read!im a purefoods fan from the pba,but since you've been formed few years back i started to follow gilas. at the onset im one of those who belittled and did not believed in your program.Especially the time when pba is still forming their last national team in 2009 by coach yeng.But by the time they finished one of the worst placed by our national teams i started to follow you more often, though didnt know much of you and some former gilas players since i lived here in ireland. But now look at you as gilas national team competing against the much talented pba teams not to mention former national players and giving them tough competitive games, yes i agree you could have reach the finals of this pba conference if only douthit is healthy 100 percent all the way.you could have been unstoppable if you played the way pba teams played the game and exposed douthit advantage in the low post more often.But you stick to your system.

hopefully this champions cup this coming May you give it all to get that crown and get the much deserve supports and belief from filipino all over the world.and make us believed that you have a chance to get into next year olympics here in london.

Mia said...

I am so in love with your blog Chris and always be a fun of yours. wish you all the best in your future games!! AJA! good luck and God bless!

razena conlu said...

hey!i read your blog..im razena conlu from negros..i too was sad because of you guys didn't proceed to the finals..because my dad agreed that we would both go and watch your game sa finals there in araneta..or even sa game 5 lng because i've been begging the to :)) because he was a ginebra fan and gilas team ako..i think you guys played fair and clean..i realy wish na i could see kahit na isang game nyo lng..goodluck sa fiba!

p.s i really wish you could reply :(

razena conlu said...

hey!i read your blog..im razena conlu from negros..i too was sad because of you guys didn't proceed to the finals..because my dad agreed that we would both go and watch your game sa finals there in araneta..or even sa game 5 lng because i've been begging the to :)) because he was a ginebra fan and gilas team ako..i think you guys played fair and clean..i realy wish na i could see kahit na isang game nyo lng..goodluck sa fiba!

p.s i really wish you could reply :( i'm a tweeter follower

Anonymous said...

I'm one of the Ginebra fans who will support our National Team! Go Pinoys!:D

Anonymous said...

So you mean that you wont be playing in the PBA anymore?

chella rempis said...

GOODLUCK TEAM PILIPINAS! super excited na ko sa FIBA Champions Cup :))) im gonna watch it!

http://www.twitter.com/thisisRochelleC said...

Hi Chris. I’m one of your millions of fans, also ng Ateneo blue eagle, and now a Smart Gilas fan. I said this before sa twitter mo. But again, I still want to congratulate you and the gilas team, not just because you lose the game, but on how you guys play the game very well. Pinakita nyo kung pano kayo naging fair, at naging malinis maglaro, even before. You’re not just a player, but a warrior! Kahit na nakita ko na marami kang Injured, you’re still a sportsman, kahit naiinis akong Makita kung pano ka banggain at bumabagsak sa floor pero naka focus ka parin to play the game and very calm. Losing or winning a game is not the real fight, but it’s on how you play the game with the god’s grace. We always support you no matter what happen, win or lose! I believe in you, because you’re still are TIUperman. ^_^ WE LOVE YOU!

-Rochelle Co

chella rempis said...

I LOVE TEAM PILIPINAS :))))

Ako Si Nikki said...

Hello! I watched the game yesterday. While waiting for the game to start, i realized i was surrounded by ginkings fans. i must admit that initially i felt little about it. i thought it would be awkward to shout my heart out if i felt alone. surprisingly, as the game went on, i saw myself standing up with every score basket made by the gilas team. it also didnt stop me from shouting and cheering. i guess, when one is really proud of something, not even a thousand of crowds can stop a heart from showing it.

we were leading, and i felt really excited. i was starting to see the team in the finals through my imagination. the play seemed to go so fast and then i realized the kings were leading already. i was looking at you and i felt you were getting worried. :(

i feared each time you had a fall.. i was thinking, we cant afford to see you get injured in the game because it may mean worst after. good thing the game ended injury free.

towards the end of the game i was thinking about how you'll be sleeping that night.. and how youll feel about it. i also waited for your tweet updates to know how you were doing. (i hope i dont sound pathetic here)... then i was glad you started to tweet.. although you were feeling bad, i believe it was better that you expressed your thoughts about the game.

i saw a very young team playing yesterday.. young but really promising.. it is true that the team has gone a long way.. fact that it reached the quarter finals showed that the team has its own powers and character. there's no doubt about that, the team really did well (believe it or not) :)

young as it is, it is also a humbling experience for the entire team. humbling that there is still so much to learn and improve on. at the same time, the entire conference is also a proof that there are people who got your back. if the conference was about proving to the whole Philippines that you have all the reasons to represent the country, i believe we saw that already. Hoping that the Filipinos will support you in the FIBA should not be a concern. i believe Filipinos have proven themselves when it come to supporting fellow Filipinos in whatever field.

ok lang naman matalo paminsan minsan. ok din lang ma block at ma boo paminsan minsan. mas natututo tayo dahil doon. may nagiging matapang din ang puso.

you have a great team, and you have a lot of people who will support you (more than you know)

meantime, sharpen the skills and keep nurturing the fire to play with the heart... for Gods greater glory...

go Gilas, go Pilipinas!!

proud of you team cap! :)
(sorry, got carried away with the comment, i thought its my blog)

Anonymous said...

Lezzgow GILAS...the whole BARANGAY will support you...ALWAYS!!Godbless... :)

mackyel said...

I am a fan of BGK.. When Team Pilipinas joined the conference, I cheered for the team as much as I cheered BGK. But, of course, my heart still belongs to the Ginkings.. Kung baga, BGK kapag PBA ang usapan pero pagdating syempre sa international competitions/games, all-out support kami sa inyo :) And in all fairness, you guys proved enough that you are deserving to be on that team, representing our country for FIBA. We'll all be praying for your success this coming May. Rest assured that all of us will cheer for the team :) Good luck and Godbless!

Anonymous said...

hey chris! continue inspiring the youth...u are such a good role model to us..keep up the good work!

-KARLA from Bacolod =)

One step at a time said...

Reading this blog & your other entries made me realize that there's a different part of Chris Tiu that is not seen on national television.

I admire your attitude on how you handle defeat/ loss. Honestly, I'm a huge Ginebra fan and I'm really happy that they won, but something in your personality makes me look up to you not only as a professional basketball player, but also as an individual.

Good luck on your team. May you continue to bring glory to God and to this country.

Mabuhay ka!

anan said...

As ur Fans We're here alWays believing You... You can do it. Just believe to you self. GoOd lUck!

ohcnas said...

Kudos SMART GILAS. We're still PROUD of you guys. Good luck! Gilas had experienced the home court disadvantage during semis against Ginebra. On FIBA ASIA, we'll show our support to the TEAM.

Anonymous said...

Hello! I'm Shirley Vy of Tacloban City. First and foremost, I would like to ask for an apology for bothering you despite of your hectic schedule and maybe you'll never get the chance of reading this since I know for a fact that there are a lot of people who are blogging you every now and then. But I am still hoping that maybe in time, you'll notice my message.
From the very first time I heard and noticed your abilities in sports, leadership, academically competitiveness, and most especially your humaneness, I became a fan of yours. You became my inspiration and I learned that if I really want to improve myself that I must strive harder and be brave enough to take every risks for the better. And it has always been a query to me how you manage everything at the same time. You're a very very lucky man :)
Have you ever watched the movie "3 idiots"? It's an Indian film with flawless work of art. But it is a vital, inspiring and life-revising work of contemporary art with some heart imbued into every part. In a country where students are driven to suicide by their impossible curriculum but the 3 idiots provide hope. Maybe cinema can't save lives. But it can make you feel life is worth living for. And no matter what comes our way if we do believe that all is well, it will eventually make you feel better :) Above all this, I want to tell you that you and your team did well!:) And don't forget to put a smile on your face :) God bless!

One step at a time said...

Reading this blog & your other entries made me realize that there's a different part of Chris Tiu that is not seen on national television.

I admire your attitude on how you handle defeat/ loss. Honestly, I'm a huge Ginebra fan and I'm really happy that they won, but something in your personality makes me look up to you not only as a professional basketball player, but also as an individual.

Good luck on your team. May you continue to bring glory to God and to this country.

Mabuhay ka!

Anonymous said...

Goodluck Chris! I'm a Ginebra fan. Napakagaling ng pinakita niyo sa series. Kinakabahan ako everytime na lumalamang kayo or may run. Sana may chance pa ulit na maglaban ang Gilas at Ginebra. I'll be rooting for Gilas for your upcoming games. Goodluck! Make the Filipinos proud! :D

jac topacio said...

This made me cry :( I think PBA would not be the same anymore without the SMART GILAS TEAM. Hindi niyo lang po naipakita ang galing ng mga pinoy, nakuha niyo rin po ang aming mga puso. IM SURE hindi na sapat ang Araneta sa suportang dadagsa sa bawat laban niyo.You have our support and prayers! GO SMART GILAS. GO TEAM PILIPINAS!

JONA said...

I'm a die hard Ginebra fan, but I salute the Nation's Pride for playing tough against the People's Champ, and that made their win so sweet! With the tough and rough game you played against BGK, no doubt Gilas is ready. Sabi nga ng mga commentator ang kulang lang sa Gilas ay yung "Yabang factor." Kaya nyo naman, kaya lang daw parang di nyo pa nare-realize na kaya nyo. :)

Good luck na lang sa Team Pilipinas! Go Pinoy!

JONA :)

myv said...

Congrats to smart gilas! A job well done! Kahit di kayo ung champion sa PBA, kayo parin naman ang champion sa puso namin!:) Goodluck sa FIBA Champions Cup! Show them what you got!

Anonymous said...

Good luck sa Smart Gilas team sa upcoming events. We will pray and cheer for your success in FIBA. Go team Pilipinas!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

After PBA, we will support Gilas Pilipinas in all your endeavors.

Dati kasi, we dont know who to support but now you can count on us.

i_am_pau said...

I am a die-hard Ginebra fan since childhood..and you can't blame me for cheering Ginebra all through out their games..though I appreciate your understanding to Ginebra supporters.. We don't hate Gilas, its just that we choose to support Ginebra over your team in PBA.. PBA is different from FIBA.. but rest assured, we will be supporting Team Pilipinas in FIBA! Congrats!

Unknown said...

nice blog...i'm a ginebra fan but i salute to PILIPINAS team...keep up the good work...maybe nxtym u'll come to the pba and get the championship,

Anonymous said...

hindi ba mas masakit yung 2010 semi finals FIBA Stankovic cup sa lebanon?

Rome Atienza said...

"It would be great if you can post your comments through this blogspot..." - here you go, sir. :)

"we wanted to earn the support and approval of the entire basketball community and Filipino basketball fans..." - i'm sure you have. i myself was not a Smart Gilas believer before. i'm a Tnt supporter for 6 years now. but when i watched your games during the Semis (thanks be to the two-game-tickets of Araneta Coliseum), i became fond of the team. i saw your passion and realized why you are in your position as the national team. you have a lot more to learn and improve on, yes, but am proud to have you guys represent the country in the field that i love most.

"once again I'd like to thank all Team Pilipinas supporters who followed and cheered for us in the game venues..." - welcome. can't wait to watch Smart Gilas' next stint!

"To the PBA, a big thank you for this learning experience! But more importantly, thank you for bringing the National team closer to the Filipino people!" - surely it has. t'was great having you this conference. :)

Maraming salamat din, Chris. you writing this blog post proves that you share your life and learning from being a part of Team Pilipinas to the Filipinos, which should always be the case. the team does not only embody Philippine's love for the sport; more so, you represent the country because there are people who believe that YOU CAN and WE CAN battle out there for our pride and honor.

lastly, just be humble. mahalin niyo ang mga sumusuporta sa inyo at ibibigay nila sa inyo ang buong puso nila.


once again, all love and respect,

Rome

Unknown said...

astig! Before I'm just a fan of Ginebra but now I'm with Gilas too.

shiela from melbourne, australia said...

Very heartwarming chris! All Filipinos all over the world will be supporting the team!! Good luck on your future endeavours

Anonymous said...

Chris just keep in your mind and heart that we will always support Team Gilas. Go, go go just keep on fighting. Your hard works will yield favorable results. Godspeed!

Anonymous said...

Very touching Chris. I understand the feeling of being out in the league especially in PBA. From the start when GILAS was build i was an avid follower, the team used to go in different cities just to train and toughen the team and i heard GILAS but really i dont know whos the part of the team since i was out of the country for a long time na and most of the players are freshly graduated from college and some are Filams which i dont recognized much. Then the time GILAS enter in the League in Dubai i was not impressed nor give my two thumbs up but i showed the heart and thats the thing i start to like GILAS very much. The team lost to national team of Lebanon for a very crucial match then i said ok lang kasi kailangan nila yan para mag improve ang team. All the time there is a GILAS match i used to be there always as my wife worked to Nestle where one of the main sponsor of that league, sayang talaga they lost pero sabi ko baka next time manalo na for a crown. In the next year they won 2nd place not bad pero almost manalo sa Egypt in the finals, then sa PBA with BGK. I felt the team became matured this time just continue showing your Big heart sa game play in a natural way. I believe in you Guys this time bring the crown with no disappointment Filipinos loves you all over the world. We love GILAS!

Anonymous said...

our family was at araneta yesterday to watch the game. It was the first time for most of us to watch a live game. My five year old nephew is a true blue smart gilas fan, he can name the players of the team. He cried really hard when smart gilas was overtaken by ginebra on the third quarter. He said the reason why gilas cannot make their shots is because of the cheers of ginebra fans hehe. Eventhough gilas didn't make it to the finals, congratulations on putting up a good fight. Hope the best for the team on your upcoming tournament. Gilas for the win!

Anonymous said...

Sir Chris Tiu..kung sa Ginebra pa lang nahirapan na ang Gilas, what more kung mga ibang countries na ang kalaban natin?

Pls. don't take it negatively..pero sana po maging challenge yan sa inyo..i-prove nyo sa mga Pilipino na kaya natin makapasok sa Olympics!!! :)

Sabi nga, fan ka man ng kung anong team sa PBA, pagdating sa labas isa lang ang ichi-cheer natin.. PILIPINAS! Go GILAS!!! Kaya natin yan!!! :)

realme said...

ok lang po yun , NANALO NAMAN PO KAYO SA PUSO NG MGA PILIPINO.! I LOVE YOU! I LOVE TEAM GILAS! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

Anonymous said...

Go Team Pilipinas...our family's support and prayer will be with the team as you represents our country in every tournament specially in the Olympics, for i believe that Team Pilipinas is capable to play in the Olympics...may the good Lord bless your team more!and for you Chris...you're an amazing person with great heart..stay humble and keep your passion for basketball burning!the Lord sees your hard works, and He will reward it in His time.God bless you!
i'm your follower on twitter
by: ylsel09

one said...

kuya chris, remember that were always here for you and for the team, i know your disappointed and it's hard to smile. I'm so worried habang naglalaro ka, kase masakit pa ung shoulder mo. T_T. I even have a diary about my daily updates opinions or ideas and others about you. It hurts when i see that your hurts. You know what, our family is a number one fan of gilas. Me, sister ko, brother ko, my dad even my lolo, we support the team all the way. But were glad that the team can get a rest na. Were going to support the team pilipinas in Fiba, we heard that the philippines is the host this time. so were going to watch it, definitely! by the way where are they going to held it?
Congratulations for playing it well and clean,honestly sa lahat ng team kayo ang pinakamalinis maglaro, that's the meaning of basketball playing it well at sports hindi yung naaasar agad. The other teams should learn from your team. :)
GOD BLESS PO CHRIS! THANK YOU.! :)

J E R R Y B J U L I A N said...

hi chris, nice reading your blog, i was also sad that gilas didnt make it to pba finals, i know that the team is very capable of making all the way for the title, i am one of the avid fan of gilas, and always following the the team. nag basent pa namn ako nung semis game against the gin kings. God bless keep on fighting.
jerry of uae.

Unknown said...

We are Proud of you! and we anre always here for SMART GILAS! kahit san man kayo nandito kami para sa TEAM PILIPINAS, alam namin ginagawa nyo lahat nang makakaya nyo para sa PILIPINAS. Kaya nandito lang kami We'll PRAY for Team Pilipinas, sad nga lang ako kasi akala ko mapapanood na naman namin kayo sa laro nyo sa FIBA, sayang Manila pala ang host, sana marami din susuporta sa mga laro nyo gaya nang support namin dit sa UAE. nandito pa din kami naghihintay sa pagbabalik nyo sa Dubai.. God Bless We'll Pray for you!!!

dhe said...

Things may not come the way you want it, but everything happens for a reason..God has greater plans for Smart Gilas Team..I have faith in you guys!!!God Bless you and your team!!!


--dhe--

Unknown said...

We are Proud of you! and we anre always here for SMART GILAS! kahit san man kayo nandito kami para sa TEAM PILIPINAS, alam namin ginagawa nyo lahat nang makakaya nyo para sa PILIPINAS. Kaya nandito lang kami We'll PRAY for Team Pilipinas, sad nga lang ako kasi akala ko mapapanood na naman namin kayo sa laro nyo sa FIBA, sayang Manila pala ang host, sana marami din susuporta sa mga laro nyo gaya nang support namin dit sa UAE. nandito pa din kami naghihintay sa pagbabalik nyo sa Dubai.. God Bless We'll Pray for you!!!

Anonymous said...

Hi the handsome professional basketball player CHRIS TIU! :) I read your blog and I can say that you really have a good heart. I'm a Ginebra fan but I really admire you! Even though my team is Ginebra, I really felt so sad for you guys. I know that you really wanted to win. I hope that joining this conference helped your team a lot. :) I will be supporting you guys! Go Team Pilipinas! You guys are still our PRIDE ! Good luck sa FIBA! Make us proud and I know you guys can do it! Continue your passion. In behalf of all the Ginebra fans, I would like to say sorry. I know that there are lots of Ginebra fans who said bad things to you guys. Pero I think they don't mean it. Nadala lang sila. Sabi nga nila, after your game versus Ginebra they will support you! Hope you appreciate that. So, good luck and God bless you! P.S. I'm looking forward to see a man playing with the Gin Kings wearing a jersey number 17! :)

The Random Asian Guy said...

As much as I wanted to see you guys win the PBA Commissioner's Cup, there are lots of positives taken from the PBA experience, e.g., playing against a hostile crowd. Besides, you will be playing at the FIBA-Asia Champions Cup about a month from now, and it's the better avenue to prove the home crowd that the team is indeed for real. Good luck and you got our support all the way. GO TEAM PILIPINAS!

The Random Asian Guy said...

As much as I wanted to see you guys win the PBA Commissioner's Cup, there are lots of positives taken from the PBA experience, e.g., playing against a hostile crowd. Besides, you will be playing at the FIBA-Asia Champions Cup about a month from now, and it's the better avenue to prove the home crowd that the team is indeed for real. Good luck and you got our support all the way. GO TEAM PILIPINAS!

The Random Asian Guy said...

Chris, just a question for your upcoming FIBA-Asia Champions Cup. For all those who are planning to come out to watch Team Pilipinas live, do you think it would be best for the fans to wear "blue" or any color to the game?

I believe that Filipino fans coming out wearing the same color shirt or clothing would present unity as well as an intimidating presence to our opponents (no pun intended against them). Given that our fans are the best and loudest in the world (yes! we are the best), seeing everyone wear the same color (shirts) would just make things better. Kinda like the fans in soccer or in the ongoing NBA playoffs.

Tippy said...

What more can I say?..nasabi na d2 lahat ng thoughts ko...I just know na when I'll see you play soon, for FIBA sa May...ibang level na Chris Tiu ka na...and the team as well...surely even the pro's of PBA would envy that opportunity of hearing all Filipinos cheering for SGP!!!

Daylight said...

IT's amazing na straight from a captain, you are so honest in sharing your emotions not just to your team, but to every person, na kaht di nga athlete, eh makaka-relate sa inyo.... it's part of God's plan, you still inspire us by losing not just by winning!!!

kapampangan said...

Somehow, I'll regret not watching you play yet..still I plan to...frustration ko maging athlete kc. Guess it's not my mission to do so...but definitely it's one of God's work for you..passion mo..and imagine the joy you bring to us Gilas fans while doing it. A million thanks for your effort. Sa buong team...DAKAL A SALAMAT.

TDK!!& said...

Though I can't figure out all the technicalities of any sports, I definitely enjoy watching basketball..esp. when players give their all..which you, Casio, Lassiter, Kuya Douthit,Barracael,etc have done. Hope you'll have your PBA win someday..when that time comes, surely naiba mo na ang mentality ng professional players...may class at character worthy to be admired talaga!!!

insomya rawit-dawit said...

First of all i would like to commend you for writing that very beautiful reflection about the game between Gilas & Kings...i shared the link of your blog to my FB so that many of my friends will also be able to read your reflections...concerning the game, well you know what Kuya Chris,the GILAS really played well, you've been a good leader (as a team captain). Life is like basketball games, there are times when we will lose a game, a time when our game is not that good, and there times when we feel that we have not done enough...but what really matters is that you have done your best (as what you always do in all your games)and you played a good game. GILAS will continue to soar and this is just the beginning of the journey of TEAM PILIPINAS... Thank you for sharing your thoughts through this blog. I admire you so much Kuya Chris not only because you are a great Basketball player, an awesome leader (team captain), a prolific writer but most of all you are very religious and very humble. YOU ARE A MODEL TO OUR YOUTH TODAY...Keep it up idol! Hope to see you in person (that's one of my dreams)sana po you can add me as one of your FB friends (di ko po kayo maadd kasi di ko po alam ang totoo ninyong account sa FB...i'm one of your fans during your Ateneo days and until now po... I pray that God will continue to Bless you Kuya Chris and your family. Here is my email add: burabodowen_12@yahoo.com

badlongon said...

Ang galing- galing mo Chris. Mas lalo mo pa kaming pinahanga. You're a very intelligent sportsman with a great heart. There are only 2 Filipino athletes that I know of today that display so much heart in their game-you and Manny Pacquiao. Two people who go out there and push harder until the game is won. Two proud Filipinos who offer, no less but their best, to their country in order to bring pride and glory. You've inspired us Filipinos to take up every challenge and bring out our best in whatever our individual undertakings may be. But above all, you trust the Almighty. Giving everything back to Him, knowing very well that His generosity cannot be outdone. That's a true Filipino. That's what fully human means.

Good luck Gilas!

~badlongon

Anonymous said...

I love Marcio Lassiter!
Well, next to you. And Dondon. Haha!
Good luck Chris! Kaya nyo yan!

leizel funtanar said...

chris, though ur team didn't won 2 nights ago, it's alright. don't lose hope. i still believe in u and ur team. Go! fight! u're such a nice player that u even let urself fall 7 times! haha! :))I watched u.. U did very best! Good luck and God bless in ur play at FIBA...

lEIZEL :)

JeremicahPerez said...

@chris_tiu i sasakripiisyo ko nalang po ang panonood ng pba kahit gustong gusto ko dahil everytime nanood ako natatalo isasakripisyo ko nalang at makikibalita nalang po sa twitter manalo lang ... I believe Smart Gilas together with @chris_tiu will win ...

Mayette B. de Vera said...

hi chris! my son and i really admire you... don't feel sad, you all did your best, and you gave BGK a good semis fight... good luck to you and to the whole team Pilipinas! we will always be here to support you! godbless!

Anonymous said...

it's alright even tough you lost that game. maybe God has better plan for the team,, cge na kanila na ang trophy sa PBA basta sa inyo ung sa FIBA!! :D
the team really give a good game, ur good sportmanship, skills, and heart in every game will bring you closer to your goals.. :))
gud luck to my one and only favorite team and also to my idol.!!
God Bless

S. said...

I believe in you and the whole team! See you soon!(during your FIBA games here in Manila..)

I hope you can check this out: http://thedoodlejournal.blogspot.com/2011/04/familiar-face-chris-tiu.html

Thanks!

Anonymous said...

hi kuya chris hehe...i know makakabawi din kayo..GOD will guide your team to victory!! aja GO SMART GILAS!!

Leigh said...

hi chris!!well ganun tlga!!sometimes you win sometimes you lose..we didn't know malay natin my big plan pla si Lord sa team Gilas..whatever happen I support you and the team gilas all the way..Just always think Positive and always pray to our Almighty God..
Good luck on your next Fiba game!!Fight!!Fight!!

Anonymous said...

CHRISTOPHER JOHN ALANDY-DY TIU!ur one of a kind person I ever know! ;) you guys has nothing to be ashamed of,you played well...I really admire your passion and love for basketball.. I am a huge fan of you..win or lose, we are here to support you..GO GILAS! GO PILIPINAS! ONE BIG FIGHT!!!

Trisha Tan said...

Everytime you see a blocked path , don't get upset . Have faith ! Could just be God's great guidance \^_^/

jonah said...

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,giving thanks to God the Father through him

ms. aikz said...

For a new-comer team in PBA, I can say that all you guys did so well and great. There's nothing to be ashamed of. Knowing the fact that your the country's representative is already a big thing to be proud of. You guys played great. There's still next time :))

Kath said...

I remember a couple of years back, you were asking our opinion through this blog whether you should join the PBA or the National Team. I suggested the latter because i thought it was a noble thing to represent the country. Bet you never guessed then that it would come to this: playing in the PBA as a part of the national team. ;) Some of us have supported the team from its inception if only through the internet, watching live streams of your games abroad and of course, prayer. Our hearts and minds were with you guys all the time and we knew what the team was really capable of. And though you were a guest team in the PBA some time ago, people didn't pay much attention because the games were no bearing and at the time, you were still in search for the perfect naturalization candidate, so the team's A-game wasn't there yet. Gilas playing in the Commissioner's Cup is something I'm very thankful about because finally, we were able to see you guys play live, in the flesh! Because of this conference, you guys have proven a lot of nay-sayers wrong.. you've earned the respect of most basketball fans in the Philippines. And now you guys have to live up to the country's expectations. :) It was hard to believe it ended that way simply because I knew Gilas had what it takes to defeat Ginebra. (And did you not prove that in the elims and in Game3?) I think it was Sev Sarmenta who commented that the team lost the swagger it had in the eliminations in that semi-finals series. Five minutes before the end of Game 4, you could have still come back but I saw in the team's body language, you guys have lost the confidence, (the heart?). There's a saying, "the true measure of greatness is how many times you rise each time you fall". I hope the team would keep that in mind and put that to heart every game, until the dying minutes. Never say die.

But at the end of the day, its the lessons we learned. Its what we remember and how we remembered them. And of course, we're still proud of Gilas with the way you guys played the whole conference and now, you've gained more supporters and, if I may repeat, the respect you deserve.

I hope to see the country unite in the FIBA games the way they've supported Manny Pacquiao or the Azkals. :)(btw, will this be televised?) Even if they can't all watch, I know they'll be with Gilas in mind and spirit! :)

Let's Go Smart Gilas Pilipinas! Awooh! :D

weloveTIU said...

we'll support Gilas all the way! :bd #lezzgowGilas

kudos said...

Reading most of these comments,already makes me proud of you and the whole team. No need to even win the PBA if people admire you for some shortcomings ?...Kudos

WESTIN said...

Sometimes having a few set-backs takes a toll in our spirit. But then again, from these disappointing moments, we find our inner strengths. It's easier said than done ika nga to say "move on Gilas" for I really did see the sorrow in some players' eyes. Sayang nga...You had the need and desire to win yet nagkulang ba?..Though for us, your fans, that was enough to prove you're already worthy to be our NATIONAL TEAM!!!

So together with the Askals, pls. go on promoting the right values and attitude in sports. May it really be your legacy to do so.

giggles said...

Probably if you did win, we won't be touched as much as we did now bec. of this blog. So for that simple reason alone, 2 be honest..I'm glad you lose!

Still keep your head high...and we already miss your smile captain!!!

gen said...

hi kuya chris!

first, ok lng po ba kau with all d physicality of the past few games sa semis... looks awful pag tumatambling ka sa floor eh...
hope you're ok!!!

and high regards on how you'd played the game!!!
and also, the leadership wow!!!

actually, I beg to disagree po na learniung experiencepo ito...

just in my opinion...
I really hope you and the national team wouldn't adopt such games displayed in the semis... grabe yun!

and finally, Goodluck with all the upcoming games!!!

Smart Gilas rise to the top!!!

Rehab said...

From a PT's point of view, I know it's hard to play if you're still injured...but even with tapings on your shoulder , you tried to give your power,and range..Tiuperman ba?...talaga...Give it more time to heal..and I pray for a faster, full recovery...that goes for Kuya Douthit and Lassiter as well...

Anonymous said...

aw, very emotional :) pero kahit ano mangyari, GILAS pa din kami!! :) goodluck sa mga susunod niyong laban :)

clarence said...

dont feel bad loosing in the pba after all the goal is to make it to the olympics! as far as i am concerned the current rp team is the best team. the passion and dedication is there. i must admit nahirapan ako nun game niyo since i am a ginebra fan and a gilas supporter as well. kudos to the team!

agnes eugenio said...

Honestly speaking, im not a PBA fanatic but since you guys played I watched every game (since UAAP), not to mention some of your players came from our school, FEU.

I know Gilas have earned respect from everyone, with what you guys have shown in the conference. Sabi ko nga sa mga friends ko, “bagets against the veterans.” Considering how they played against you, I know that basketball is a physical game but you battled a clean fight and I commend to all of you for that.

So keep your head up, whether you win or loose, it’s the learning that counts.

Anonymous said...

its ok kung natalo man kau ang mhalaga para sa amin kau ang panalo.

we will support u and the Gilas team till the end. you make us proud.

sna mkalaro kau ulit sa PBA. Gudluck 2 ur nxt game.

Mayette B. de Vera said...

hi! i and my son admires you a lot... it's sad lang kasi hindi ka na namin makikita ngayong conference... but, i promise that we will support you and the rest of the team on FIBA champions cup... good luck and more power! god bless! :)

>> not only the brgy. ginebra fans, but also the alaska aces fans will support the national team... aja aja aja chris! fight fight fight team Pilipinas! :)

P-chy (crazypeach) said...

I failed to add something when I commented. This Bible passage reminded me of Gilas' PBA journey.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

That's just a race within a race. The bigger race has not ended yet.

Go Gilas! \(^_^)/

Anonymous said...

don't worry chris although natalo ang gilas its ok kasi para sa amin na mga fans nyo, gilas is the best and will always be a champion in our hearts.

Goodluck 2 your nxt game.

Angel said...

I cried when I read all the comments here.. I share your sentiments Chris. And I really admire your optimism.

It was really nice to see you guys play in the PBA. First of all I never enjoyed the PBA and didn't really have the energy to watch it until you guys came in the scene. I'm sure a lot of people share the same sentiments with me. The PBA should also be thankful for having you. I'm sure you gained more fans here in the Philippines. And you guys proved that the national team is truly a force to reckon with even against Pros. All of you are young and that means there is so much more you guys can offer! We are so proud of all of you!

Thank you also for playing by HEART. That made us love you guys more.

GO GILAS!

Charmzz Pielago said...

it was a good fight, Chris. :)
you guys did your very best. you put your heart and soul in every game. whatever happens, we will always be there for you and for your team. :)
GO Smart Gilas! :)))

Anonymous said...

You guys fought well. Kaya niyo 'yan! Someday makakapasok di kayo sa Finals and we will be there to support SMART GILAS PILIPINAS!

christelle said...

hey kuya chris ! dont mind if u loss this season game ! remenber theres always a second chance . and u did it well u fought w/ all ur determination and courage .. whatever happens ur still our kuya chris ! and we will always remain to be ur avid fan . yeah it is painful but always think things happen w/ reasons mlay mo next season ull be able to make it . . besides gilas brought so much glory to our country so theres no reason to be ashamed .. cause whatever happen FILIPINOS ARE PROUD OF YOU !! GO GILAS ! !

rica_17 said...

chris ok lang kung natalo kayo ginawa nyo namn lahat ng kaya nyo eh basta para samin kayo ang panalo and dont worry may game pa namn eh like FIBa champions cup were here support you :)

hera said...

aw..some parts are so down :(.. i'm really sorry. but I'll still support gilas! :)..

ivane mendoza said...

win or lose.. Smart Gilas will always be our National Team..may our Lord bless you guys always...goodluck and remember that we are always here to support Gilas...

Unknown said...

I really like team Smart Gilas.. I would follow them in every game they play.. Their team inspires me!!! CHRIS TIU.. We believe in you.. I'm fascinated by your performance as a leader.
Your avid fan

Unknown said...

Woah! every game of SMART giLas is breath taking.. Im really excited everytime the game is on.. This team inspires me very much..
I admire you, CHRIS TIU, for being a fantastic leader of this team.. keep it up.. you brought back my enthusiasm in watching PBA!!!
God Bless you..

Yanaliao said...

Sayang, wasn't able to watch your game 'coz of tight work sched. :( Wishing you all the best for this upcoming tournament. Hope I can watch you this time in Ultra... :) Jia you!
-Shine

Anonymous said...

you didn't loose coz you played it clean... keep it up!!!

Anonymous said...

Fiba is just around the corner...at mega practice na mga Gilas...
to make another history...I pray to make a dream come true din: to be able to watch my idols in their best form...making their country proud, knowing nandun kami lahat to shout your cheer...
For God's greater glory...Amen.

astoldby_sheirmane said...

Hi, Chris!!
Finally I was able to find your blog site..hehehe
I have been watching the Smart Gilas games but on TV nga lng.. I admire all you guys for working so hard for the whole Philippines.. bsta, we are always there for the GILAS team!!^^ more power to you and god bless!

Anonymous said...

Wishing to see Gilas in action sa FIBA...May His power, strength, endurance,etc.. guide you in your games. Filipinos are all behind you now!!! sarap ng feeling...

Gia said...

God Bless you Team Pilipinas! :) With determination like yours and your team, you'll definitely win this time. :)

Unknown said...

win or lose, my support still goes to Gilas!!
you guys do your best in your incoming games!!
good luck captain!

JMie said...

Hi!!

I would like to inquire about franchising Happy Lemon, if youre open to it.. or should we contact happy lemon directly?

Thanks Thanks!

arrielle said...

"GILAS!You played well in the whole conference." agreed in here. I am still a fan of Team Pilipinas Smart Gilas.