Amos wants World Cup stint

BOCAUE, Bulacan — Mason Amos aims to join Gilas Pilipinas when it sees action in the next edition of the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027.

Rocking a Gilas jersey while watching the Filipinos' game against the Dominican Republic on Friday at the Philippine Arena here, the 19-year-old Amos vowed to do his best to help the national squad make a return to the World Cup.

Amos is one of the rising stars of the Gilas program together with Kai Sotto and AJ Edu.

He dazzled in his Gilas debut during the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers and helped the squad redeem its shattered pride in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

Still, he wants to see action on a bigger stage — the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

"I'm just happy if I will be given the opportunity in the future," Amos, who is set to play college ball for Ateneo de Manila University told Daily Tribune.

"It's a dream for me of trying to win the World Cup, one day."

"Hopefully, I can get back to training with the team next year."

Aside from Amos, also rallying behind Gilas by watching their game live at the cavernous venue were former Gilas coaches Tab Baldwin and Sandy Arespacochaga.

"I'm happy for them, honestly," Amos said.

"The fact that we are at a stage right now where we're hosting the World Cup and being able to watch them is something I look forward to anyway."

"I get to support the team I used to play with. I'm forever happy with the team and I wish them success in this tournament because this is something big in the Philippines. It's more than just for the team, but for the country."