“I am optimistic that we have the team that can win a medal,” Toroman said after conducting a light workout at the newly-built Huangpu Stadium, 10 hours before facing the Athletes of Kuwait in a knockout match.

The Nationals, reinforced by four PBA players, sampled the newly-built gym and found it to their liking.

“Lahat ng pukol sa labas, walang sayad,” mused Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes. “Malambot ang ring. Hindi ko alam kung hihigpitan mamayang gabi. Pero enjoy ang mga shooters.”

Reyes is here as one of the assistant coaches of Toroman who formed this team in early 2009 with the sole objective of landing a spot to the 2012 London Olympics.

Only half of the original line-up has remained in the current 12-man roster following the inclusion of several Fil-Am players recruited in the United States and three PBA players.

Toroman said the Asiad will provide them an idea on where the team stands right now.

“The team encountered problems at home. Marcus (Douthit) was unable to get his passport on time, but we have made adjustments,” said Toroman who hinted the possibility of keeping PBA players for next year’s FIBA-Asia.

Rey Bancod, Manila Bulletin