SMB top pick Standhardinger stays ‘very committed’ to play for Gilas

Christian Standhardinger was drafted first by San Miguel in the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

With San Miguel taking Christian Standhardinger as the top overall selection in the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft on Sunday, doubts were raised as far as his availability for Gilas Pilipinas is concerned.

But the 28-year-old forward reaffirmed his position with the Philippine team, noting that whenever he gets the call, he’ll be more than glad to once again don the national team colors.

“I’m very committed to Gilas. If they want me to play for them, I would be honored to play for Gilas. Nothing changed here,” he said.

For now, what’s next for Standhardinger is Hong Kong before Manila to suit up for San Miguel.

“I’ll play for six months there,” he said, referring to his stint with Hong Kong Eastern Sports Club in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL).

“Every PBA team knew that when they draft me that I’m not gonna be available for the next six months. So I’m gonna play in Hong Kong and try to win a championship there. After that, I can’t wait to be a part of the PBA and a part of San Miguel and I hope to continue winning championships here,” he said.

Standhardinger flew back to Hong Kong late Sunday night to return to his ABL  team.

The opening of the new ABL season is on November 25, which is expected until the middle of April.

By then, Standhardinger gets to finally join the Beermen in the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup.