Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas announced that FIBA has granted Mike Phillips local status, making him eligible to suit up as a local in all FIBA-sanctioned tournaments.
The federation made the announcement on Saturday morning.
“It’s a blessing and a huge honor to officially be eligible to represent the Philippines. The opportunity to play for the national team is a longtime dream and an answered prayer! I’m beyond grateful to FIBA, the SBP, and everyone who supported this process,” Phillips told the federation.
Phillips, who stands at 6-foot-8, arrived in the country after graduating from Creekside High School in 2019.
The Filipino-American bruiser made waves at De La Salle University, winning two UAAP championships and making the Elite Team three times. He also won Finals MVP in his senior year during UAAP Season 88.
Phillips was also part of the Gilas Men team that won gold in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games.
“Handa na po akong lumaban para sa ating bansa! Ibibigay ko lahat ng kaya ko at ang buong puso ko! I cannot wait to compete alongside my fellow Filipinos as we continue pushing Philippine basketball forward,” Phillips added.
“Para sa bayan!”
Now, Gilas has a huge frontline for the rest of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers as he now joins 7-foot-3 Kai Sotto, 6-foot-10 Quentin Millora-Brown, and 6-foot-10 AJ Edu.
