BREAKING: Quentin MilloraโBrown Officially Recognized as a โLocalโ for Gilas Pilipinas โ A Monumental Win for National Basketball
A thunderous cheer echoes across Philippines hoops: Quentin โQMBโโฏMilloraโBrown has officially been classified as a local player for Gilas Pilipinas ๐๐ต๐ญ. This milestone marks a turning pointโfrom eligibility debate to national prideโas 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 QMBโs youthful Philippine passportโissued before he turned 16โclearing the FIBAโs most stringent eligibility hurdle . As SBP President Al Panlilio shared, โWe wanted to make sure the papers are clear โฆ our goal is to have QMB play for us as a localโ .
A Dream Within Reach
QMB has been vocal about his burning desire to rep the Philippines on the international stageโbut a naturalized tag had been a sore reality . FIBA regulations discourage naturalized designations when local eligibility is satisfiedโbut 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 systemโa timely development following Kai Sottoโs ACL setback .
Voices from the Court & Community
QMB, visibly moved, expressed hope tinged with resolve: “Weโre hopeful. We donโt control FIBAโbut we’re ready to play for the country.”
SBPโs Al Panlilio urged patience and support, reminding the public that this was a result of due diligenceโand not hasty action .
Gilas coach Tim Cone, ever candid, said, โIf I had the choice, manโIโd love QMB on the teamโ .
Beyond the Roster: A Legacy Built on Promise
At its core, this isnโt just about eligibilityโitโs deeply personal. QMBโs journey is intertwined with the legacy of his grandfather, Dr. Angel Millora, whose mantra โBe safe, alwaysโ echoed throughout QMBโs childhood and triumphant UAAP season with UP . That emotional momentโhitting clutch free throws in the Finalsโwas 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 Brownleeโbut 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 MilloraโBrownโs recognition as a Gilas local symbolizes more than complianceโitโs the culmination of a promise, a family’s sacrifice, and a nationโs hope. The paperwork may have been the pivot, but itโs QMBโs heartโand legacyโthat have carried him home.
Hereโs to seeing him don the Gilas jersey with pride, dedication, and the heart his grandfather wouldโve been proud to see.
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