The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) feted the Gilas Pilipinas team that went through the wringer in retaining the men’s basketball gold of the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Bangkok.

Gilas coach Norman Black led the national team which was introduced at halftime of the Philippine Cup quarterfinals between TNT and Magnolia at the Smart Araneta Coliseum late Saturday.

Along with Black, members of the team in attendance were Robert Bolick, Thirdy Ravena. Von Pessumal, Jamie Malonzo, Abu Tratter, Veejay Pre, Justin Chua and Poy Erram.

Also part of the team but were not around were Dalph Panopio, Matthew Wright, Ray Parks, Cedric Manzano and Allen Liwag.

PBA board chairman Ricky Vargas joined commissioner Willie Marcial and Magnolia team governor Jason Webb in recognizing the entire team at center stage of the Big Dome.

With Black in the coaching staff are deputies Sandy Arespacochaga, Bacon Austria and Andre Santos.

Team management includes Yvette Ruiz, Jonvic Remulla and Ryan Gregorio, who is also assistant team manager.

Sandro Soriano acts as video coordinator, trainer is Diego Lozano, Greg Razon is physical therapist, while Rolly Arguelles and JM Manlasa are the team staff.

Despite all odds going against it, the national team still completed a four-game sweep of the tournament, including a close 70-64 statement win over host Thailand in the gold medal match.

The victory was sweet as Black had to scramble forming a team at the last minute as the host country constantly changed its rules on players’ eligibility.