Ateneo de Manila University’s Ange Kouame and De La Salle University’s Kevin Quiambao confirmed that they will join Gilas Pilipinas’ pool for the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers’ fifth window.
The 6-foot-5 flashy forward shared his decision after the Green Archers’ 54-68 loss against the Blue Eagles on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Meanwhile, Kouame will also attend, as confirmed by Ateneo team manager Christoper Quimpo.
“Sobrang excited lalo na PBA players, mga kuya na yung makakasama ko. Sobrang excited akong makasama ko sila kase yung mga kasama ko ngayon mas matatanda na sa akin,” said Quiambao.
“Siyempre pinaka-excited akong nakasama si kuya Kiefer (Ravena), sila kuya Scottie (Thompson). Sila yung nag-g-guide sa akin sa court. Dun sa practices pa lang, guina-guide na nila ako para itama yung mga mali,” he added, referring to the point guards in the team.
Gilas Pilipinas will battle Jordan on November 11 before facing Saudi Arabia on the 14th. Both will be on the road.
On the other hand, University of the Philippines’ Carl Tamayo begged off due to a nagging injury.
“May mga previous injury ako na kailangan i-rehab. Sinusubukan namin kausapin ‘yung Gilas, nag-send naman kami ng formal letter to excuse,” said Tamayo.
“Nararamdaman ko sa sarili ko na I need to rest and rehab. I think Gilas will understand naman.”
