Metro Manila, Philippines — Naturalized forward Bennie Boatwright is set to make his long-awaited debut for Gilas Pilipinas, while fan favorite Rhenz Abando makes his national team return for the upcoming fifth window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
The two were named to the final 12-man roster released by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas on Wednesday, Nov. 11.
Boatwright steps in for longtime Gilas resident naturalized player Justin Brownlee, who remains sidelined due to health issues.
Abando, currently suiting up for the Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters in the Korean Basketball League, dons the national colors for the first time since the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 in Manila.
Anchoring the frontline alongside Boatwright are big men Kai Sotto, AJ Edu, Quentin Millora-Brown, and Mike Phillips.
Completing head coach Tim Cone’s squad are Dwight Ramos, Kevin Quiambao, Scottie Thompson, CJ Perez, Juan Gomez de Liaño, and Chris Newsome.
Gilas currently sits in fifth place in Group E with an even 4-4 win-loss card.
The Philippines will take on Syria on November 27 and Iran on November 29 at the Karisma Arena in Seremban, Malaysia.
Only the top three teams from each group and the best fourth-placed squad will secure tickets to Qatar for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.
