Blatche to play for Manila Olympic qualifying tourney – Gilas Pilipinas

Gilas Pilipinas has already secured the commitment of naturalized player Andray Blatche for the Manila Olympic Qualifying Tournament and possibly, the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Team manager Butch Antonio bared the development on Monday, saying that Blatche’s handlers and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) have finally come to terms.

“Over the weekend, I got an email already informing us that Andray is on board. We said last week that it was a 99.9-percent possibility, but I’m really glad that it’s over and done with,” he said.

Though he refused to elaborate the terms of the contract, Antonio noted, “It was fair.”

“When we came to terms, it wasn’t that difficult and all parties were amenable and cooperative with everything, from the terms to the duration (of the contract).”

Antonio also said that Blatche is expected to arrive to the country and join the team practices no later than May 15, depending on coach Tab Baldwin’s preference with the development of the current pool. But he notes that it wouldn’t be much of a problem given the former NBA star’s dedication to the Philippine men’s national team.

“If coach Tab sees it necessary for him to arrive earlier, we’ll talk to him,” he said. “Andray has always been waiting for a chance to play for Gilas again. I think he’ll be ready and more than willing to make the necessary adjustments if he has to, as far as the schedule us concerned. He’s on call for anytime that we need him. He’s willing naman and he’s going to be ready. We just don’t want to limit him on us. Him getting games abroad and in the NBA will also be good for us.”

Antonio also said that Blatche’s conditioning issue from last year will no longer be a cause of concern, as the New York native has made it a point to be better this time out.

“They say that he’ll be training now until May in the States,” he said. “Hopefully, he’ll be better. Positive naman tayo dyan.”
The Philippines will wage war against France and New Zealand in the group stages of the Manila Olympic Qualifying Tournament from July 5 to 10.