MANILA, Philippines – Andray Blatche is excited as he gets closer to acquiring a Filipino citizenship that will enable him to reinforce the Gilas Pilipinas in FIBA World Cup in August and Asian Games in September.
Blatche is now just two approvals away from suiting up for Gilas Pilipinas after Senate Bill 2108 authored by Sen. Sonny Angara has been approved last week by the Committee on Justice and Human Rights chaired by Sen. Koko Pimentel.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is under tight timeline with the deadline of sending documents to the FIBA world governing body for naturalized players set on July 15. Blatche’s fate – and perhaps Gilas’ bid to make an impression in its long-awaited return to the world basketball stage – is now at the hands of the court of Senate and then the Palace.
“I am excited. This is something new. It is a blessing for this opportunity,†Blatche told New York-based NBA.com Philippines’ correspondent Julius Romero.
“Hopefully, I can share my talent in helping the Philippines,†he added.
Blatche is expected to join the Gilas training pool by June 15 or after the Nets’ playoff run and settling his free agency status. In all likelihood, Blatche will re-sign with the Nets as the 6-11 center-forward is playing a vital role off the bench this season. He is averaging 11.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1 steal in 22.2 minutes for the Nets, who are currently fifth in the NBA’s Eastern Conference.
If approved, Blatche will take the place of resident naturalized player Marcus Douthit, who will turn 34 on April 15.
The 27-year-old Blatche even wished for a Manny Pacquiao victory and hopes for an audience with the Filipino boxing icon to get some advice in boosting the Philippine pride.
“Please tell Manny Pacquiao to call me,†the future Gilas center told Romero.