Justin Brownlee. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Justin Brownlee, and three more newcomers banner the Gilas Pilipinas’ talent pool for the sixth and final window of the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers set next month.
Brownlee, La Salle’s Schonny Winston, Adamson’s Jerom Lastimosa and teen Mason Amos have been added to the list released by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Friday afternoon.
Fresh from taking his oath of allegiance to the Philippine flag earlier this week, Brownlee, now Filipino, is expected to banner the Final 12 that will defend home turf against Jordan and Lebanon.
Joining the four are standouts from the Philippine Basketball Association who previously represented and trained with the national team: Most Valuable Player Scottie Thompson, six-time MVP June Mar Fajardo, CJ Perez, Chris Newsome, Roger Pogoy, Jamie Malonzo, Calvin Oftana, Japeth Aguilar, Raymond Almazan and Arvin Tolentino.
Also in the bunch are young pros plying their trade overseas: Kai Sotto, Thirdy and Kiefer Ravena, Ray Parks. Jr. Dwight Ramos, Jordan Heading, and Japan-bound Carl Tamayo.
Rounding out the list are Gilas’ other naturalized ace Ange Kouame, La Salle’s Kevin Quiambao, and Francis Lopez.
The call-up marks a return for Almazan, Tolentino, and Heading. The latter suited up for the Tab Baldwin-mentored squad competing in the Asia Cup qualifiers here and the Olympic Qualifiers in Serbia.
Meanwhile, Amos will be figuring in what could be his men’s team debut. Reportedly joining the Blue Eagles, the 6-foot-8 big man should shore up the Gilas’ ceiling against the taller Falcons and Cedars.
The Nationals are scheduled to resume its weekly practices on January 23 in preparation for two home stands that will be played at the cavernous Philippine Arena in Bulacan.