Macau Black Bears seek guest spot in the upcoming PBA Season 50
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Gilas SEA Games roster may blend PBA, collegiate standouts
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is exploring the possibility of forming a Gilas Pilipinas lineup that blends PBA pros and top collegiate talent for the upcoming 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, slated from December 9 to 20.
With the PBA’s 50th season Philippine Cup deep in the elimination round by then, the PBA Board of Governors has approved the release of only a limited number of players for the SEA Games campaign.
Veteran coach and Meralco consultant Norman Black is being tapped to lead the squad, pending a formal confirmation from the SBP.
Black, who last coached a gold-winning SEA Games in 2011, confirmed his willingness to take on the task.
NORMAN BLACK
“The SBP has approached me about handling the SEA Games national team, and I have informed them that I’m willing to take on the challenge,” said Black, currently in Las Vegas for the SBP's talent ID program with LA Tenorio and Patrick Aquino.
With Tim Cone focused on Barangay Ginebra’s campaign in the All-Filipino conference, Black is expected to temporarily step in.
Among the potential collegiate prospects being considered are Gerry Abadiano, Nic Cabanero, Kean Baclaan, Clint Escamis, Mason Amos, Mike Phillips, and others — contingent on the availability of UAAP and NCAA players by December.
Naturalized star Justin Brownlee is a sure bet for the SEA Games lineup, with the PBA All-Filipino conference in play by then, making him available. However, the inclusion of overseas-based players like Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu, Carl Tamayo, Kevin Quiambao, and Rhenz Abando remains uncertain, as the SEA Games is not a FIBA-sanctioned event and player releases may be restricted.
