Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes has tapped Centro Escolar U big man Rodrigue Ebondo as a possible addition to the team that will play in the Fiba Asia Champions Cup in case Bright Akhuetie isn’t allowed to suit up.
Ebondo practiced with the nationals on Thursday along with Akhuetie, Isaiah Austin and other new faces who are helping out Gilas prapare for the upcoming club tournament.
“We’re still checking out with Bright because of his eligibility and it might affect his UAAP residence so we brought in Rod Ebondo,” said Reyes.
Akhuetie is currently serving his residency with University of the Philippines and his inclusion in Gilas for the Fiba Asia Champions Cup might jeopardize his chance to play in the UAAP for the Fighting Maroons.
Ebondo, meanwhile, is making most of the opportunity given to him to play for the Philippines in some capacity.
“It’s a big honor for me and I’ll just take advantage of this opportunity and play harder and bring the best for the team,” said Ebondo.
The tournament will be from September 22 to 30 in Chenzhou, China.