The Gilas Pilipinas Women's national basketball team faces a significant setback ahead of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. Two vital members of the squad, Stefanie Berberabe and Gabi Bade, have been excluded from the final line-up due to eligibility rules concerning naturalized players.
Eligibility Rules Bar Key Players
Head coach Pat Aquino confirmed the difficult news, explaining that Berberabe and Bade are considered naturalized players under the competition's regulations. The critical factor is the age at which they acquired their Philippine passports. "They got their passport after the age of 16 so they are considered as naturalized," stated Aquino. This ruling directly impacts the team's composition and strategy for the upcoming regional games.
Proven Track Record and Recent Contributions
The absence of Berberabe and Bade leaves a considerable gap in the team's roster, given their proven contributions. Both athletes were integral members of the Gilas Women's team that secured the gold medal at the 2021 Hanoi SEA Games. Furthermore, Stefanie Berberabe was part of the Gilas Pilipinas Women squad that won a silver medal at the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games. Despite their exclusion from the SEA Games line-up, both players have remained active, participating in national team training sessions and competing in the Women's Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League to maintain their competitive edge.
Impact on Team Composition and Future
This development poses a major challenge for Coach Aquino as he reshuffles his lineup for the tournament in Thailand. Losing players of this caliber forces a strategic rethink just as the team prepares to defend its regional standing. The situation highlights the ongoing complexities of player eligibility in international sports, affecting team dynamics and the pursuit of medals on the Southeast Asian stage.
