Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al S. Panlilio expressed his satisfaction after meeting with Gilas Pilipinas naturalization prospect Bennie Boatwright over the weekend.
Panlilio said he had the opportunity to get to know the San Miguel import off the court during a lunch at the Fairways Grill of the Manila Golf and Country Club in Makati, along with Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone, team manager Richard del Rosario, and SBP executive director Erika Dy, as reported on the SBP website.
Impressed by Boatwright’s demeanor, Panlilio shared his positive impressions with SBP chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan and SBP vice president Ricky P. Vargas in a brief text message, stating, “It seems we have the right guy.”
Standing at 6-foot-10 and weighing 235 lbs, Boatwright arrived from China, where he played for the Shanxi Loongs in the Chinese Basketball Association, to initiate what is anticipated to be a lengthy naturalization process.
Fortunately, there’s no rush, as Justin Brownlee is set to fulfill the role of Gilas’ naturalized player in the July 2–7, 2024 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
“I told him [Boatwright] that he’s a bigger, younger version of Brownlee,” said Panlilio. “He’s very excited to be chosen and to be part of the Gilas journey.”
Boatwright, a godson of former PBA import Francois Wise, attended the game between San Miguel and Converge in the Philippine Cup at the Philsports Arena on Friday, where he interacted with reporters.
Reflecting on his decision to join Gilas, Boatwright stated that it was an easy choice, emphasizing the allure of the opportunity and the experience of playing in the Philippines.
The post Al Panlilio: We’ve found the right fit in Bennie Boatwright first appeared on Fastbreak.
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