Contributed Photo.
The race for Bennie Boatwright's naturalization is officially on as Senator Sonny Angara, doubling as the SBP chairman, introduced Senate Bill No. 2636 to grant citizenship to the towering 6-foot-10 forward.
This monumental step, initiated on Monday, April 29th, highlights Boatwright's exceptional performance during the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, where he propelled the San Miguel Beermen to a championship title, showcasing his court dominance and explosive offensive prowess.
Angara underscored Boatwright's profound impact on Philippine basketball, acknowledging his embrace of Filipino support and his eagerness to represent the nation not only in the PBA but also on the global stage, a move poised to elevate Philippine basketball's international stature.
While Gilas head coach Tim Cone reaffirmed Justin Brownlee's status as the primary naturalized player, Boatwright's impending inclusion promises added depth and competitiveness to the national squad, especially in international tournaments like the Asian Games, World Cup, and even the Olympics.
With Boatwright's naturalization bid gaining momentum, anticipation mounts as SBP vice chairman Antipolo City Rep. Robbie Puno prepares to file a counterpart measure in the House of Representatives, solidifying Boatwright's potential as Gilas Pilipinas' formidable asset.
Photo courtesy of USC Basketball
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