Millora-Brown ‘just what the doctor ordered’ for Gilas Pilipinas

This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

In the absence of Kai Sotto, Quentin Millora-Brown leads Gilas Pilipinas in rebounding as the team sweeps its opening-window assignments in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers

MANILA, Philippines – Quentin Millora-Brown’s first run with Gilas Pilipinas lived up to expectations. 

The 6-foot-10 big man earned praises from head coach Tim Cone and teammate Dwight Ramos after he played a key role in an opening-window sweep of Guam in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Millora-Brown led the team with an average of 9.5 rebounds to go with 7.5 points and 1.5 blocks as the Philippines gained a share of the lead in Group A, tying Australia with a 2-0 record.

“He’s just scratching the surface of his ability to help us. We’re still exploring his game. He’s exploring his game within the system,” said Cone after a 95-71 win over Guam on Monday, December 1. 

“There’s a lot more levels for him to go. But the initial look is that he’s just what the doctor ordered.”

Millora-Brown’s addition came timely as the squad remained without 7-foot-3 star Kai Sotto, who is eyeing a January return after sustaining a knee injury earlier this year.

It also boosts the Philippines’ frontcourt, with veteran forward Japeth Aguilar retiring from national team duties. 

“He’s a really strong defender,” said Cone. “He got to the offensive boards. He ran the floor. He’s just a very active big. And again, that’s just what the doctor ordered for us.”

Now that he has gotten his feet wet, Millora-Brown is expected to play a bigger role in the February-March window as the Philippines battles significantly tougher opposition in a pair of home games against New Zealand and Australia.

“I love the way he plays,” said Ramos. “He’s not scared to challenge shots. He’s physical down there in the paint. So, I’m looking forward to seeing him again and his improvement.” – Rappler.com