After a long wait, Vanessa de Jesus will finally don the colors of the Philippines.
The 5-foot-8 guard out of Duke University will serve as Gilas Women’s designated naturalized player for the upcoming 2023 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup which will take place from June 26 to July 2 in Sydney, Australia.
De Jesus only obtained her Philippine passport last March.
For De Jesus, playing for Gilas is a dream come true.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to suit up for the Philippines National Team,” said de Jesus.
“Two of the most important things in my life are family and basketball and through this opportunity, I will be able to represent both.
“I am thankful to everyone who has helped get me to this point and I look forward to growing as a leader and a basketball player by competing on the global stage,” added de Jesus, who had help from Fil-Am Nation Select in finally getting her passport.
De Jesus averaged 5.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 32 games played during her junior year.
Blue Devils head coach Kara Lawson knows that this stint will only help de Jesus entering her senior year.
“I’m thrilled that Vanessa will have this opportunity to represent The Philippines on the world stage,” said Lawson.
“The Asia Cup brings together some of the best Senior National Teams. She will be tested competing against professional players. I couldn’t think of a better way for her to prepare for her senior campaign here at Duke. We will be rooting hard for her.”
Tough will be the competition this time around for Gilas Women.
Slotted in the same group as the Philippines are powerhouses Australia, Japan, and Chinese-Taipei.
Lebanon has also been promoted to Division A after the relegation of India.
The Philippines finished in seventh place during the last edition of the tournament, beating India in the relegation match.
