SBP pegs Douthit naturalization deadline
MANILA—The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has until Oct. 16 to complete the stringent naturalization process of American Marcus Douthit. SBP executive director Noli Eala said the 10-day time frame would determine if the 6-foot-10 Douthit could join the Smart Gilas national team in the Asian Games in Guangzhou, China, on Nov. 12 to 27. The Senate will have a three-week break after the 16th and resume its sessions on Nov. 7. “By then, it will already be late in the day,” said Eala. The House of Representatives gave its nod on the naturalization of Douthit, who will need a Philippine passport to apply for accreditation in the Asiad. “It’s still a long process. We have to get the approval of the Senate not later than Oct. 16,” said Eala. Once the Senate grants Douthit’s Filipino citizenship, his papers will be forwarded to the Office of the President for signing before applying for an RP passport that will serve as ticket to the continental games. Meanwhile, Sol Mercado, one of three players loaned by the RP five from the PBA, secured his Philippine passport yesterday. Eala said Mercado and Chris Lutz, who secured his passport last week, will now apply for accreditation.
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