Youthful duo of Bolick and Perez proud to wear the flag for Gilas Pilipinas

Being a rookie entails the promise aInd potential of being something great. But for CJ Perez and Robert Bolick, they are playing like they are seasoned veterans.

Case in point was their solid showing for Gilas Pilipinas in their final tune-up before the FIBA World Cup, where in the former college rivals played in spurts before splitting their series with NBL's Adelaide 36ers.

Perez, the top overall pick in the most recent PBA draft, was elated to don the nation's colors anew, having been part of the cadet squad that played in the FIBA Asia Challenge two years ago.

"Every game kasi, yun yung mindset namin all the time," said the spitfire Columbian guard.

He had a good experience since coming on board to supplant the absence of Marcio Lassiter, and he is all praises to the veterans who were every step in the way.

"Pag kasama mo yung mga beterano, di ka nila pababayaan."

On the other hand, the Northport sniper activated his beastmode ever since he left Mendiola, and he feels at home at his first stint with the senior side, having been part of the cadet squad for the 2023 FIBA World Cup last year at the FilOil FlyingV Preseason Cup.

For him, they could have repeated the fightback if they have dropped the shots more accurately last sunday.

"It's all about making shots. We just didn't make ours," he conceded.

Final 12 or not, Bolick was just grateful for the rare chance to don the flag.

"I'm so happy that I learned a lot here. Ayun yung mga bagay na di mo mabayaran," he added.

He concluded that the playing for the country was the most important thing, as he see his beau Abigail Marano do the same thing in volleball.

"Siyempre gusto namin pareho kaming lumalaban para sa Pilipinas. So yun yung pinakaimportante dun."