Pingris gets green light to suit up for Gilas

MANILA, Philippines -- Marc Pingris today (Wednesday) announced that he would finally suit up for Gilas Pilipinas following an earlier statement that he will pass up on the chance to play for the Philippine Team citing family, health and professional concerns as reasons.

“Despite my earlier pronouncement not to join and give others a chance to play for the country, Purefoods management has asked me to reconsider my decision. I talked to my wife and we agreed. In the end, it was pride and honor in representing the Philippines that prevailed over me,” Pingris said.  

He added: “I am grateful for management’s support and if the Philippine team still needs me, I promise to go all out for the country in the Fiba-Asia Championship as it aims to gain a slot in the Rio Olympics next year.”

San Miguel has always been supportive of endeavors to promote national pride.  “He will represent the country because he wants to. We have no control over our players’ decision when it comes to competing for the national team. We do not deny that we debate on the merits of them joining as a professional player. However, in the end representing your country is an incomparable honor. You can’t argue with that,” Rene Pardo, Star Hotshots team governor, said.

He added that management will continue to encourage its pool of players to make themselves available, if they can, for national interest.