With the whole lot nonetheless unsure at this level so far as Gilas Pilipinas’ composition for the 2023 World Cup this August is anxious, naturalized Filipino massive man Ange Kouame made it identified that one factor’s for positive: he’ll at all times reply the decision of obligation.
The former Ateneo de Manila University stated he’ll swimsuit up for the nationwide group if and every time Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) invitations him sooner or later.
“Yeah for sure, 100 percent,” Kouame stated as he was feted because the 2022-2023 Basketball Player of the Year by the Collegiate Press Corps on Monday.
“At the end of the day, I’m still a Filipino so if the call is there, I’ll still represent the country.”
Kouame had suited up for the nationals thrice in World Cup Asian Qualifiers, averaging 4.3 factors and 5.3 rebounds whereas he additionally boosted the nation through the 2021 FIBA Asian Cup Qualifiers. He, nevertheless, was sidelined within the event correct resulting from a meniscal sprain and partial ACL tear.
Injury has additionally prevented him from enjoying within the recently-concluded Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, the place he was a part of the 3×3 pool alongside Almond Vosotros.
Kouame additionally stated he understands Gilas head coach Chot Reyes’ selections to discipline different naturalized gamers Jordan Clarkson and Justin Brownlee within the nationwide group’s earlier outings, saying ‘it’s what it’s’.
“I understand that things change. But I still have to stick to the job, you know, this is what I signed up for and play for,” he added.
“It is what it is, so I’m gonna go with the flow and whatever opportunity presents itself, I have to be ready.”
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
Source: www.gmanetwork.com
