THE inclusion of Ange Kouame in the Gilas Pilipinas national team training pool for the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers piqued a lot of curiosity.
Will Kouame take the spot of fellow naturalized player Justin Brownlee? Not so fast.
While confirming Brownlee will suit up for the Nationals’ two home games instead of the 6-foot-10 Kouame, Gilas coach Tim Cone insisted the former UAAP MVP is an integral part of the squad.
“We could only play one naturalized player at a time so the only person that he could play in place of is Justin Brownlee,” Cone said. “I think it’s really important because, if something, God forbid, knock on wood, happens to Justin then we would be able to bring in Ange.
“He would again know the system. He knows what we’re asked of him. He’ll be part of the preparation,” he added.
The Philippines battles New Zealand on Nov. 21 and Hong Kong three days later at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Cone said Kouame will also give the Filipino dribblers a big boost in practice when he takes on reigning eight-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo.
“Ange is just very important to us, and we need him there so he can be ready to step in immediately, if necessary,” Cone said.
“Plus, he’s one of the few guys that can throw a body at June Mar and get June Mar ready for playing against bigger players.”
It’s also import for Gilas to have another option while waiting for former San Miguel Beer import Bennie Boatwright’s naturalization.
“It’s important to have him be a part of the program as much as possible as that backup as we wait for Bennie Boatwright to go through the process of his naturalization and whatever needs to be done,” Cone said.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas President Al Panlilio also said reigning UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao will be available despite the November window running smack with the 87th basketball tournament.
“He’ll be joining the team. The UAAP has games on the 20th and the 23rd which don’t involve La Salle,” Panlilio said.
“Rebo Saguisag (UAAP executive director), who’s also a big part of the journey, talked to us earlier about this plan which started in January this year. This (roster) has been envisioned to go all the way in the World Cup for 2027 and hopefully, the Olympics beyond that.”
Having options is surely not a bad thing for a Gilas side racing against time in its preparations and dealing with injuries.