MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas has completed its 12-man roster for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games men’s basketball competition in Bangkok, Thailand with the inclusion of four more players.
According to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), making up the four remaining spots are Bacolodnon Justin Chua, Cedrick Manzano, Allen Liwag, and Dalph Panopio.
The 36-year-old Chua was a member of Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles’ historic UAAP five-peat under coach Norman Black, the mentor of SEA Games-bound Gilas.
Panopio, Manzano, and Liwag, on the other hand, are appearing for the first time in seniors men’s basketball squad.
The four newcomers join an experienced core composed of Ilonggo Ferdinand “Thirdy” Ravena III, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Robert Bolick, Jamie Malonzo, Matthew Wright, Von Pessumal, Abu Tratter, and Veejay Pre.
The completion of the roster came a week after the organizing committee ruled several players, led by Justin Brownlee and Angelo Kouame, ineligible for the 5×5 competition.
“After a tedious back and forth due to initially unclear and constantly changing rules in player eligibility, we at the SBP have submitted this list to the local organizing committee and it has been vetted and has undergone pre-approvals,” the SBP said.
The SBP also thanked the PBA, UAAP, NCAA, and Japanese B-League for allowing their players to compete for flag and country.
The Philippines seeks its 20th men’s basketball gold in the biennial event./PN
