BREAKING: Quentin MilloraβBrown Officially Recognized as a βLocalβ for Gilas Pilipinas β A Monumental Win for National Basketball
A thunderous cheer echoes across Philippines hoops: Quentin βQMBββ―MilloraβBrown has officially been classified as a local player for Gilas Pilipinas ππ΅π. This milestone marks a turning pointβfrom eligibility debate to national prideβas Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) secures confirmation of his status under FIBA rules.
The Game-Changing Move
After months of meticulous documentation gathering and verification, SBP has finally submitted and validated QMBβs youthful Philippine passportβissued before he turned 16βclearing the FIBAβs most stringent eligibility hurdle . As SBP President Al Panlilio shared, βWe wanted to make sure the papers are clear β¦ our goal is to have QMB play for us as a localβ .
A Dream Within Reach
QMB has been vocal about his burning desire to rep the Philippines on the international stageβbut a naturalized tag had been a sore reality . FIBA regulations discourage naturalized designations when local eligibility is satisfiedβbut without pre-16 passport proof, the door remained closed .
Now, with the documentation recognized, Gilas Pilipinas likely gains a dynamic 6’10” agile center whose elite defense, offensive rebounding, and high motor fits seamlessly into coach Tim Cone’s systemβa timely development following Kai Sottoβs ACL setback .
Voices from the Court & Community
QMB, visibly moved, expressed hope tinged with resolve: “Weβre hopeful. We donβt control FIBAβbut we’re ready to play for the country.”
SBPβs Al Panlilio urged patience and support, reminding the public that this was a result of due diligenceβand not hasty action .
Gilas coach Tim Cone, ever candid, said, βIf I had the choice, manβIβd love QMB on the teamβ .
Beyond the Roster: A Legacy Built on Promise
At its core, this isnβt just about eligibilityβitβs deeply personal. QMBβs journey is intertwined with the legacy of his grandfather, Dr. Angel Millora, whose mantra βBe safe, alwaysβ echoed throughout QMBβs childhood and triumphant UAAP season with UP . That emotional momentβhitting clutch free throws in the Finalsβwas more than victory; it was a tribute to a legacy of quiet strength .
What Comes Next
A formal call-up to the Gilas Pilipinas training pool is likely imminent. SBP and Coach Cone have made no secret of wanting QMB in their plans .
The naturalized spot remains filled by Justin Brownleeβbut with QMB now a local, Gilas unlocks strategic flexibility for future lineups .
Final Thoughts
In a saga that blends bureaucracy, basketball, and emotional legacy, Quentin MilloraβBrownβs recognition as a Gilas local symbolizes more than complianceβitβs the culmination of a promise, a family’s sacrifice, and a nationβs hope. The paperwork may have been the pivot, but itβs QMBβs heartβand legacyβthat have carried him home.
Hereβs to seeing him don the Gilas jersey with pride, dedication, and the heart his grandfather wouldβve been proud to see.
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