JB or Bennie for Gilas?

MANILA, Philippines  - There’s a possibility that Justin Brownlee and Bennie Boatwright may be available to play with Gilas in the fifth FIBA World Cup Asia qualifying window against Syria on November 27 and Iran on November 29 in Seremban, 55 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. If they're both in harness, Gilas coach Tim Cone will decide whom to line up as only one naturalized player is allowed in FIBA competitions.

Secretary of Labor and Employment Francis Tolentino confirmed that Boatwright was sworn in yesterday morning to advance the process of his naturalization. Boatwright, 30, is under contract with the Fujian Sturgeons in the Chinese league where he’s averaging 24.5 points, six rebounds and three assists. Under an agreement with FIBA, leagues all over the world are mandated to release players for national duty in FIBA-sanctioned competitions like the World Cup, Olympics and their qualifiers.

Cone said he’s hoping Brownlee can report for work sooner than later.  “If he comes, it won’t be to play with Ginebra immediately,” said Cone. “We’re very pleased with Jordan Murphy. However, Justin’s still one of our naturalized players for Gilas.” Brownlee, 38, played his most recent Gilas game against New Zealand in the third FIBA World Cup Asia qualifying window last July. He has since been inactive because of health issues.

If Boatwright and Brownlee are ready for the fifth window, Cone said he’ll choose whom to enlist between them. “We’re not ready to commit to either player,” he said. “We’re hoping both will be healthy and available to us in our preps and make the decision then.”