SBP releases 2019 Gilas Pilipinas draftees to PBA

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) confirmed that it has released the five Gilas Pilipinas members it drafted in 2019 to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

SBP executive director Butch Antonio confirmed the news to GMA News Online that special picks in Isaac Go can now play for Terrafirma Dyip, Rey Suerte for Blackwater, Matt Nieto for NLEX, Allyn Bulanadi for Alaska, and Mike Nieto for Rain or Shine.

This came after the quintet did not renew their contracts with the basketball body after they expired on January 31.

"Yes [they are now released]. We actually spoke to the PBA and we were talking with the players," said Antonio.

"What's great with the relationship between PBA and SBP is that whenever we need something, all you have to do is ask and ensure to have proper channeling and proper coordination."

Despite this development, Antonio said the five cagers are still very much welcome to join the nationals come the 2021 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers this February 24. He added that nothing has been finalized yet as far as the team composition is concerned

Antonio, though, said that players currently plying their trades abroad can suit up for the national team if plans do not miscarry. This means that the likes of Thirdy Ravena, Dwight Ramos, Kobe Paras, and Javi Gomez de Liaño, who are all playing as imports in Japan B. League, as well as Kai Sotto in the National Basketball League in Australia, can be tapped for the national team

"Of course, they are still welcome," added Antonio. "Yes, they (players in Japan) are part of the wish list and that's what we are trying to work on now."

Antonio said these decisions will still all depend on Chot Reyes, who was recently tapped to lead the national team anew after erstwhile mentor Tab Baldwin stepped down from his post. — LA, GMA News