Why is the World Cup qualifiers crucial for Gilas' long-term goals?

Why is the World Cup qualifiers crucial for Gilas' long-term goals?

MANILA, Philippines – Tim Cone made it clear from the time that he officially took over the coaching mantle for Gilas Pilipinas that the ultimate goal of the team is to reach the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. But to do that, the Nationals must first qualify for the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar. So it is imperative that the Philippines does well in the Asian Qualifiers, where it is bunched in a dangerous Group A that includes world No. 6 Australia, …