Thirdy Ravena, Robert Bolick return as Gilas’ SEA Games lineup gets approval

MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas’ 12-man lineup for the Southeast Asian Games finally got the stamp of approval of the local organizing committee of Thailand after several revisions.

Thirdy Ravena, Matthew Wright, Ray Parks, and Robert Bolick return to national team duties as they lead the Philippines’ quest for a 20th gold medal.

Joining the four in the team to be coached by Norman Black are Jamie Malonzo, Justin Chua, Von Pessumal, Abu Tratter, Dalph Panopio, Veejay Pre, Allen Liwag, and Cedrick Manzano.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) scrambled to put together a team as SEA Games organizers flip-flopped on their eligibility rules for 5-on-5 basketball, eventually prohibiting the inclusion of those classified as naturalized players.

Naturalized standouts Justin Brownlee and Ange Kouame and Filipino-American guards Remy Martin and Jason Brickman were all part of the original SEA Games roster but they were ruled ineligible.

“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 federation said.

“We extend our deepest appreciation to all the players for dropping everything to compete for Gilas.”

In the 2023 SEA Games, host Cambodia adopted a passport-only rule and bolstered its squad with multiple Americans on the way to the gold-medal match, although it fell short of the top prize as the Philippines reclaimed its throne.

Thailand is eyeing a breakthrough SEA Games title in men’s 5-on-5 basketball, having finished second eight times. – Rappler.com