Fajardo leads SEA Games basketball roster, Ravena gets crack at 5th gold

MANILA, Philippines—June Mar Fajardo leads the Philippine men’s basketball delegation for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games as the final roster was announced Friday night.

Joining Fajardo in the final 12 are Gilas Pilipinas mainstays Roger Pogoy, Matthew Wright, Marcio Lassiter, Japeth Aguilar and Troy Rosario and LA Tenorio.

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Kiefer Ravena gets a shot at a historic fifth SEA Games gold medal despite being a late addition to the national team pool coached by multititled mentor Tim Cone.

Christian Standhardinger is also returning to the international stage since competing for the Philippines in the 2018 Asian Games while Stanley Pringle likewise made the team.

Vic Manuel and Chris Ross, meanwhile, get their chance to don the Gilas Pilipinas jersey for the first time.

Ginebra players Scottie Thompson, Greg Slaughter and Art Dela Cruz did not make it to the final cut.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas thanked the players who became part of the pool.

“Although the decision was surely not easy, the SBP have complete trust in the team and we’re excited to defend our crown as the best basketball team in the region,” said SBP president Al Panlilio.

The Philippines is expected to deliver the gold anew in the biennial meet hosted by the country from November 30 to December 11.