Why Elizabeth Means chose to pursue naturalization for Gilas Pilipinas

Elizabeth Means is undergoing the naturalization process as she looks to become part of Gilas Pilipinas Women in future international tournaments.

The former Westminster University forward attended a congressional hearing last year alongside Bennie Boatwright and Malick Diouf. She is also set to suit up for Pilipinas Aguilas in the fourth season of Manila Hustle 3x3 this weekend at the SM Mall of Asia.

Means cited the Philippines’ culture as a major reason for accepting the offer to be naturalized.

“I think it’s a really cool opportunity to be naturalized and get to be accepted into such an amazing culture and amazing country, and get to play 3x3 basketball, which allows for a lot of international travel, which I’m excited about, and get to compete at a really high level,” Means said on Friday.

According to Means, 3x3 coach Anton Altamirano first approached her and presented the opportunity.

“I got to learn about what it would mean playing for the Philippine national team, to go through the process of naturalization, and get to represent the Philippines, and it all sounded amazing. It excited me, and I decided to move forward with that process,” she added.

Means said her next step in the naturalization bid is a Senate hearing.

For now, she will gain her first taste of international action by competing in the Manila Hustle 3x3 invitational.

“I’m really excited. I’m excited to get to play on an international stage, play against other teams, and see what the competition is like. I think it’ll be a really fun event,” she said.

Manila Hustle 3x3 will see 16 teams battle for the crown and cash prize of $4000 and more importatnyl, a ticket to the 2026 FIBA 3x3 WSeries Shanghai Stop.

Elizabeth Means, a Gilas Pilipinas candidate for naturalization, talked about how she was invited to represent PH @gmasportsph @gmanews pic.twitter.com/BRsCEGx08m

— JK Carandang (@jk_carandang) January 30, 2026

—JMB, GMA Integrated News