BLATCHE GETS P-NOY OK
President Aquino affixed his signature on Andray Blatche’s naturalization papers Wednesday, eventually making the Brooklyn Nets’ second-string center eligible to represent the country in any future international basketball competition.
Aquino signed Republic Act 10636 granting Filipino citizenship to Blatche and, in the process, cleared the way for his inclusion in the PHL team that will compete in the FIBA World Cup in Spain starting Aug. 30 and in the Asian Games in Incheon, Korea just more than two weeks later.
“President signs Blatche Bill into law. Thank you, Sir — from a grateful basketball nation. Now let’s get to work, and focus,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan.
“Just got word the President has signed @drayblatche citizenship papers. Maraming Salamat, Mr. President!” said Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes.
“Now the hard work begins,” Reyes added.
Blatche, a Manila visitor from last Sunday to Tuesday, is now free to join the Gilas Pilipinas pool that includes another naturalized player Marcus Douthit.
Blatche said he’s gone a long way with Douthit whom he has played with and against in numerous games back in the US. Both will be part of the pool embarking on a two-month training to prepare for the World Cup in Aug. 30-Sept. 13 in Spain and the succeeding Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea. But only one will be able to suit up for the tourneys.
The 27-year-old, 6-foot-11 Syracuse, New York native promised to give everything he’s got for Team Pilipinas.
“I kind of owe it the people that worked very hard to get me in this position,” said Blatche.
He flew into town for a three-day visit to personally thank members of the Congress and the Senate for crafting his naturalization, meet some of his would-be teammates and learn Filipino values and culture. (SB)
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