Newly-appointed Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Executive Director Renauld "Sonny" Barrios said he will treat the members of the Smart-Gilas Pilipinas, including its Serbian mentor Rajko Toroman, like his own family as they prepare to host the FIBA-Asia Championship in Wuhan China in September. With five months left before the tournament which serves as the qualifying tournament for the 2012 London Olympics, Barrios knows that Toroman and his coaching staff are doing everything to prepare the national team for a tough task ahead.
"My approach has always been the same. I give my full trust and confidence to our RP team coach as they prepare for the tournament," Barrios said Friday, a day after he was appointed to the position of the SBP.
Barrios, however, said that it is appropriate to set a meeting with Toroman, his coaching staff and officials of Smart-Gilas, including team manager Frankie Lim to discuss what is still needed in its preparation.
"I will look at what’s on the table, and talk to Toroman," Barrios said.
"But the (SBP) management is just here to support. I leave it up to coach Toroman, who I support 101 percent," Barrios added.
