Gilas Pilipinas Boys have suffered a blow as Andy Gemao will miss the FIBA Under-18 Asia Cup 2024 in Amman, Jordan, due to injury.
Gemao suffered a third metacarpal bone fracture during a tune-up game against Iran.
The athletic 6-foot winger was the standout performer for the Philippines during the SEABA qualifiers.
“It’s an unfortunate situation. We do everything in our power to keep our players healthy,” said Gilas Youth team manager Dean Castaño to the SBP website.
“But it’s a physical sport, and these things happen. We wish Andy Gemao a quick and complete recovery and we’ll be here for him during this difficult time.”
Gilas Boys are already without Kieffer Alas, who suffered an ACL injury during the buildup to the Under-17 World Cup.
As Gilas prepare for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup, they find themselves in Group D alongside formidable opponents New Zealand, Jordan, and Indonesia.
The stakes are high, as the top four teams from the tournament will earn a spot in the FIBA U19 World Cup 2025 in Switzerland.
