The Philippine men's national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, is now at full strength and ready for battle. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has officially submitted and secured approval for its final roster for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games (SEAG).
Roster Finalized After Eligibility Challenges
The composition of the team was confirmed after a period of uncertainty. The SBP revealed that the process involved navigating initially unclear and frequently changing rules regarding player eligibility for the regional meet. "After a tedious back-and-forth due to initially unclear and constantly changing rules on 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 national basketball federation stated.
This official confirmation puts an end to speculation and allows the team to focus fully on its preparation. The 2025 SEA Games basketball tournament is scheduled to run from December 9 to 20, 2025, in Thailand.
Coach Black Leads Blend of Experience and Youth
Leading the Philippine charge in Thailand will be veteran mentor Norman Black. The celebrated coach will oversee a squad carefully constructed to reclaim SEA Games basketball supremacy. The SBP has opted for a balanced mix of seasoned professionals and promising collegiate standouts, aiming to combine experience with fresh energy.
The twelve players who will represent the Philippines are:
- Jamie Malonzo
- Dalph Panopio
- Thirdy Ravena
- Matthew Wright
- Ray Parks
- Ced Manzano
- Justin Chua
- Robert Bolick
- Von Pessumal
- Allen Liwag
- Abu Tratter
- Veejay Pre
Mission: Recapture SEA Games Basketball Gold
The primary objective for this Gilas Pilipinas squad is clear: win the gold medal. The Philippines has a storied history in SEA Games basketball but has faced stiff competition in recent editions. With the roster now settled, the team can intensify its training camp, build chemistry, and execute Coach Black's system.
The approval from the games' organizing committee marks the final administrative hurdle. All attention now shifts to the hardcourt, where Gilas Pilipinas will aim to bring pride and the championship back to the nation.
