A group of Filipino basketball fans have written an open letter to the family, relatives, colleagues, and friends of Chot Reyes, the head coach of the Philippine national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas.
The letter, which was posted on social media and addressed to various stakeholders of Philippine basketball, appeals to the loved ones of Reyes to persuade him to step down from his position.
The letter acknowledges the achievements of Reyes during his tenure as the Gilas coach, such as winning medals in various international tournaments and qualifying for the 2014 FIBA World Cup.
However, it also expresses deep concern and dissatisfaction with his coaching style, which the fans claim is no longer effective in the global stage of basketball.
The fans cite several instances of embarrassment and disappointment for Philippine basketball under Reyes’ leadership, such as losing the gold medal to Indonesia in the 2021 SEA Games, failing to win a single game in the group phase of the 2023 FIBA World Cup as the host country, and receiving boos from the home crowd during the FIBA qualifiers.
The letter urges Reyes’ loved ones to help him realize the damage that he has done to Philippine basketball and to show mercy to the Filipino people. It also accuses the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas – SBP, the governing body of Philippine basketball, of using Reyes and putting him in humiliating situations.
The letter suggests that Reyes should resign from his post, find peace of mind, and regain his self-respect.
The letter ends with a plea for Reyes’ family and friends to express their true feelings and opinions to him and to support him in making the right decision for himself and for Philippine basketball. The letter also hopes that Reyes will listen to his loved ones and heed their advice.
The letter has garnered mixed reactions from netizens, with some agreeing with the fans’ sentiments and others defending Reyes and his achievements. Some also questioned the authenticity and motive of the letter, while others suggested alternative solutions for improving Philippine basketball.
As of this writing, Reyes has not issued any statement or response regarding the letter.
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