ANGE Kouame should be part of Gilas Pilipinas in the 19th Asian Games once some kinks in his participation are ironed out.
Gilas interim coach Tim Cone revealed that Kouame could be bound for a European ballclub, but is confident that it won’t stand in the way of his participation in the Hangzhou Asiad.
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“He has an issue with a team in Europe that he is looking to sign with. But we are hoping and thinking that he should be available for the Asian Games,” said Cone during a press conference on Thursday.
Asked again after the press conference, Cone said Kouame will be part of the final roster if the issue is resolved.
“He is definitely part of the Final 12 if he is available. He has something going on in Europe. I’m not clear on the whole situation. That’s more [the area of] Butch Antonio and Alfrancis [Chua],” said Cone.
Kouame is eligible to play for Gilas in the Asian Games even with Justin Brownlee in the line-up as multiple naturalized players are allowed in the quadrennial competition.
Kouame will bring size to Gilas Pilipinas that already has June Mar Fajardo and Japeth Aguilar, who are already assured of spots in the Final 12.
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