YOUNG and a perfect fit.
That’s how the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas described former San Miguel Beer import Bennie Boatwright, who is being eyed as the next naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas.
“Boatwright is currently 27 years of age, making him a solid choice for naturalization as the SBP seeks to secure the future of the national team alongside working on its current goals,” the cage body said in a statement last Monday night. “He played for the San Miguel Beermen in the recent PBA Commissioner’s Cup where he demonstrated he was a good fit for Philippine basketball as he led his ballclub to the championship with his overall leadership and talent.”
The SBP said having the 6-foot-8 former USC Trojan on the pool of the Nationals’ naturalized players that include NBA star Jordan Clarkson, Justin Brownlee, and Ange Kouame will only serve them in good stead.
“It is SBP’s philosophy to maintain a pool of naturalized players to provide the Philippine national team with options for specific tournaments,” the SBP said.
“The presence of a pool also ensures availability of naturalized players in case of injuries, scheduling issues, and other unforeseen incidents.”
After leading the Beermen to a 4-2 finals triumph over the Magnolia Hotshots in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup last February, Boatwright has taken his act to the Chinese Basketball Association’s Shanxi Loongs but is set to return to the country, according to the SBP.
“While he is currently playing in China, the former USC Trojan has expressed his desire and willingness to return to the PBA as soon as possible since he has developed a strong connection with the Philippines,” the SBP said.
Coach Tim Cone, who said he wanted Boatwright to be naturalized, clarified Brownlee is still the man for Gilas in coming international tournaments.
The Filipino dribblers are grouped with host and world No. 8 Latvia, and No. 23 Georgia in Group A in the Olympic qualifying tournament in July.
The Philippine five, ranked No. 37, must finish in the top two of its group to advance to the crossover semifinals against the top two of Group B, which includes No. 12 Brazil, No. 17 Montenegro, and No. 67 Cameroon.
