Things just keep getting better for Tim Cone and Gilas Pilipinas Men.
Just two days after Quentin Millora-Brown recommitted to the national team for the rest of the Olympic cycle, another big man is about to join the pool.
Mike Phillips was granted local status by FIBA, making him eligible to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas Men.
With his addition, Cone further strengthens the Philippines’ frontline with the 6-foot-8 banger. Beyond that, Cone sees the former La Salle skipper as a future pillar of the national team.
“We’re extremely happy that Mike has secured his clearance,” Cone said.
“Needless to say, with his size, enthusiasm, and leadership, he will be a fixture of Gilas for years to come.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Phillips arrived in the Philippines in 2019 and has fully embraced the culture of his motherland.
During that time, he graduated with a degree in Marketing Management while leading the Green Archers to two UAAP championships.
He also learned to speak Tagalog fluently.
For now, however, Cone said it is too late to add Phillips to the pool for the second window of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, as the deadline for the preliminary roster was set last Wednesday.
Gilas will face New Zealand on February 26 and Australia on March 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The decorated head coach, thoug,h assured that the UAAP Season 88 Finals MVP will be part of the pool starting in Window 3.
“With only three practices left before we start, it’s too late to add him right now,” Cone explained.
“He will, however, definitely join the pool for the next window.”
