Scottie Thompson return a big boost at backcourt

A big boost for Gilas Pilipinas at backcourt is the return of Barangay Ginebra standout Scottie Thompson since being cleared to join the team's closed-door practice late last week.

The 30-year-old reigning PBA Most Valuable Player was out of the loop for about a month since suffering a metacarpal fracture on his shooting hand during the tailend of Gilas' training camp in Kaunas, Lithuania.

Scottie Thompson FIBA PHOTO

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio is confident that despite the bumps and bruises Gilas experienced during the World Cup buildup, the team is “in a much better shape.”

“Obviously, they've been practicing longer. They've been to Erurope, they've been to China so the core team is pretty good in terms of fitness,” Panlilio told One Sports' The Game.

“Jordan (Clarkson) is also fot. Scottie is fit, but more of game-time type of experience (he just needs) because he's been away. Kai is more fitness that we want him to…but hopeuflly the last 10 days would be focused on better fitness but for everyone, discipline themselves and make sure they are ready to abttle starting Aug. 25.”

Gilas kicks off its World Cup against Dominican Republic on Aug. 25 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.