Blatche, Fajardo banner 12-man Gilas roster vs Japan

MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes bared the names of players who will suit up in their clash against Japan in the FIBA World Asian Qualifiers on Friday.

In a Facebook live session, Reyes said the lineup will only be for the Japan game.

"For Taiwan, it could change," he said.

Gilas veterans Calvin Abueva, Japeth Aguilar, Jayson Castro, June Mar Fajardo, Allein Maliksi and Gabe Norwood will provide the veteran experience.

Young bloods Kevin Alas, RR Pogoy, Troy Rosario, Matthew Wright and Kiefer Ravena will also be in the lineup.

Andray Blatche will make his return to the national team after missing the 2017 FIBA Asia Cup.

Mac Belo, Carl Bryan Cruz and Raymond Almazan did not make the cut.

After taking on Japan, the Nationals will fly home to host Chinese Taipei on Monday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.