Big boost: FIBA reclassifies Phillips as local

Mike Phillips has been classified as a local by FIBA, making him eligible to play without restrictions in all tournaments sanctioned by the basketball world governing body.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) expressed gratitude to FIBA for its swift action in hearing its request and reclassifying Phillips’ status.

“Phillips, who already shown willingness in playing for flag and country by joining Gilas Pilipinas Men in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, is now eligible to play as a local in all FIBA tournaments,” SBP said in a statement released on its official Facebook page.

The 6-foot-6 versatile forward helped Gilas reclaim the SEA Games gold medal during the Phnom Penh edition of the biennial meet.

Phillips was previously classified as a naturalized player under FIBA’s eligibility rule. It was the reason why Thai organizers barred the De La Salle University product from participating in the 33rd SEA Games last December.

The Filipino-American, who won Finals Most Valuable Player on his last dance with the Green Archers last year, is a great addition to the Tim Cone-mentored squad in future tournaments.

With his clearance secured, Phillips said he’s ready to don the tricolor once again and rejoin his Gilas brothers in battle.

“It’s a blessing and a huge honor to officially be eligible to represent the Philippines. The opportunity to play for the national team is a longtime dream and an answered prayer! I’m beyond grateful to FIBA, the SBP, and everyone who supported this process,” Phillips said.

“Handa na po akong lumaban para sa ating bansa! Ibibigay ko lahat ng kaya ko at ang buong puso ko! I cannot wait to compete alongside my fellow Filipinos as we continue pushing Philippine basketball forward. Para sa Bayan!” he added.

Phillips averaged a double-double of 13.3 points and 13.7 rebounds in his final year with La Salle, which reclaimed the crown in a three-game series win over University of the Philippines.

The 25-year-old cager is the latest Gilas player to be reclassified as a local after 6-foot-10 center Quentin Millora-Brown got his about less than a year ago.

Chris Newsome was also reclassified a few years back alongside Greg Slaughter.

Newsome and Millora-Brown are set to banner the Gilas squad in the second window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers against New Zealand and Australia on 26 February and 1 March, respectively, at the Mall of Asia Arena.