IT’S final. The 33rd Southeast Asian Games basketball competitions will only require passports as basis for eligibility.
This was confirmed by Gilas Pilipinas SEA Games coach Norman Black, who added that the eligibility rule will allow him to keep the team that was initially named led by naturalized player Justin Brownlee.
Also on the roster are Ray Parks, Matthew Wright, Remy Martin, Thirdy Ravena, Jason Brickman, Dave Ildefonso, Ange Kouame, Veejay Pre, Mike Phillips, and Kymani Ladi.
Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser is the final addition to the SEA Games roster.
READ: BGR is final piece to Gilas puzzle in SEA Games
The rule was confirmed following a recent meeting by the organizers.
Black is glad that the eligibility rule has been clarified following reports that the organizers might change to FIBA regulations, meaning only one naturalized player is allowed per team.
FIBA rules would have meant a drastic change to the Gilas SEA Games roster.
“That helps a lot,” said Black about not having to change the roster due to a policy change. “At least, I’m going to have talent led by Brownlee.”
With the eligibility now settled, Black will soon start the ball rolling in the preparations for the SEA Games, starting with obtaining the availability of the players especially those playing overseas.
Black is also in the process of scouting the opponents for the SEA Games. Host country Thailand is seen as one of the challengers of the Philippines for the gold medal.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph
NOTICE ON UNAUTHORIZED AND UNLAWFUL USE, PUBLICATION, AND/OR DISSEMINATION OF SPIN.PH CONTENT: Please be notified that any unauthorized and unlawful use, publication, and/or dissemination of Spin.ph’s content and/or materials is a direct violation of its legal and exclusive rights to the same, and shall be subject to appropriate legal action/s.
