ANTIPOLO - Bennie Boatwright is looking forward to get his naturalization process going after rejoining San Miguel in the PBA 50th Season Commissioner's Cup.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has been trying to fast-track Boatwright's naturalization and the process could go smoothly now that he is in the country to salvage the Beermen's quest for a second straight PBA title.
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“I'm looking forward to it. I think we have like one more hearing in the Senate. And I think I should be good to go after that. It's nice that I'm here,” said Boatwright in an interview with reporters after his first game back with the Beermen on Sunday.
Boatwright's performance on Sunday certainly revives the excitement of getting him naturalized for Gilas Pilipinas.
The San Miguel import had 41 points and 11 rebounds, while also shooting even better from the four-point line with a 3-of-5 clip. Boatwright struggled from the closer distance after going 2-of-10 from three-point range.
The Senate was scheduled to tackle Boatwright's naturalization alongside 3x3 prospects Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Means last March, but his papers were shelved for the meantime since Boatwright was still playing in Korea.
The 29-year-old Boatwright said he is not yet aware when the process will resume.
“[Gilas deputy] coach Richard (Del Rosario) takes care of everything. He makes everything smooth. I just stay patient,” said Boatwright.
The former University of Southern California player said that while the papers aren't moving, he is already preparing himself physicality for a potential national team call-up once his naturalization is enacted into law.
“I keep that in mind everyday when I'm training, just preparing for it. I think it's a real good opportunity and I'm grateful for it,” said Boatwright. “I'm very confident. I'm just staying patient.”
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