Juan Gomez de Liano aims to pick up where he left off for Gilas

Gilas Pilipinas’ Juan Gomez de Liaño in action vs New Zealand in their Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers match in Auckland. –FIBA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Juan Gomez de Liano has emerged as a valuable piece for Gilas Pilipinas since his return to the national team during the second window of the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers last February.

And after his breakout performance in the third window against New Zealand last month in Auckland, the rising guard will be among the players expected to deliver in the upcoming second round of the qualifiers.

Gomez de Liano appears ready to take on the challenge.

READ: After breakout Gilas game, Juan Gomez de Liano ready for next window

“I’m coming in with the same approach which is pretty much locking down on defense and making the right plays,” he said.

“I’ll let the game come to me.”

That’s what Gomez de Liano did against the Kiwis when he erupted for 23 points that went with six rebounds and four assists. He was also one of the very few bright spots for Gilas in its crushing 92-49 loss to Australia in Perth.

Although Gilas lost in double overtime, Gomez de Liano showed he’s another player that the Philippine team can definitely rely on down the stretch.

READ: Gomez de Liano proud to see trio of Converge players in Gilas pool

Added motivation

Gomez de Liano has more reasons to step up with veteran center June Mar Fajardo at the twilight of his national team career.

Fajardo had hinted that the Philippines’ home games against Jordan on Friday and Iran on Sunday could be his last in a Gilas uniform.

“Our vets paved the way for us young guys. It’s up to guys to show what we can do for the whole country,” said Gomez de Liano.

“As the young ones here, we just want to do our best and follow through with what they gave us. We’ll make the right plays and hopefully continue going in the right direction.”