Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas is facing a dilemma with one of their players, as Bright Akhuetie’s availability for the 2017 FIBA Asia Champions Cup has become clouded with uncertainty, head coach Chot Reyes rued Thursday night.
According to Reyes, the six-foot-seven Nigerian’s status for the Chenzhou, China-hosted showpiece from September 22 to 30 suddenly became blurry, since it could affect his residency with University of the Philippines. Akhuetie is currently undergoing his one year residency after transferring from the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA to UP last November.
“We’re still checking it out, because there’s an uncertainty kay Bright Akhuetie regarding his eligibility. It might affect his UAAP residency,” said the 54-year-old mentor moments after the team’s practice at the Meralco Gym.
But the Chooks to Go-backed squad is already bracing for the worst. If ever Akhuetie will not be cleared, Reyes and his staff already have somebody in mind to fill his spot — Centro Escolar University’s foreign student-athlete Rodrigue Ebondo.
“So we’re bringing in Rod Ebondo to be a back-up import for us,” said Reyes.
The six-foot-six wing from Congo is coming off a runner-up finish with CEU in the 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup. He has also experienced playing ball globally, as he represented his country in the Afrobasket U-18 years ago.
In line with the announcement, the veteran internationalist also shed light on which players are shoo-ins for the upcoming tourney, which also serves as a “tryout” for national team members for the World Cup Qualifiers this November.
“The shoo-ins are Kiefer [Ravena], Jeron Teng, Toto Jose, of course Isaiah Austin, [Alfrancis] Tamsi, and Norbert Torres,” shared the multi-titled tactician. “Hopefully over the weekend we can make a decision.
“We have a tune-up game on Saturday. Hopefully after that we can make a final lineup.”
