THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has formally kicked off the legislative process to secure Filipino citizenship for three key basketball prospects, namely towering PBA import Bennie Boatwright, women’s team hopeful Elizabeth Means, and celebrated UAAP big man Malick Diouf.
The trio attended a Congress hearing on Wednesday, marking the official first step in the naturalization process that, if successful, will make them eligible to represent the Gilas Pilipinas national basketball teams in international competitions
The move by the SBP signals a strategic push to deepen the talent pool for both the Gilas Men’s and Women’s programs, ensuring greater flexibility in the squad selection for various FIBA and regional tournaments.
A 6’10” forward, Boatwright, 29, is well-known to Filipino fans for his stellar performance as an import for the San Miguel Beermen, whom he led to the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup championship. The American athlete is currently playing overseas for the Taipei Fubon Braves in the P+ League.
The 6’11” Senegalese center Diouf, 26, is a familiar face in the collegiate circuit, having played a vital role in the University of the Philippines’ UAAP Season 84 championship run.
Diouf, who was a former UAAP regular season and Finals MVP, would immediately address the need for a formidable, consistent presence in the paint for Gilas Men.
The 6-foot Means is an American forward who played for Westminster University (NCAA Division II) and recently completed a professional season in Ecuador. She is being eyed as a significant reinforcement for the Gilas Women, aiming to boost the squad’s competitiveness in upcoming tournaments.
The congressional hearing was the initial stage for House Bills (HBs) filed to grant the athletes Filipino citizenship.
All three measures were authored by Isabela Rep. Bojie Dy.
The naturalization process is a multi-step legislative endeavor that requires approval from both the House and Representatives and the Senate, and ultimately, the signature of the President of the Philippines to become law.
The bills will need to undergo multiple readings and committee hearings in the House before advancing to the Senate for a similar process.
This move underscores SBP’s commitment to securing long-term reinforcements to complement current naturalized players like Justin Brownlee and Ange Kouame and ensuring the Philippines remains a competitive force in Asian and global basketball.
