Bennie Boatwright’s KBL move keeps Gilas naturalization bid on track

What initially looked like a complication in Gilas Pilipinas’ long-term plans may have quietly resolved itself.

Bennie Boatwright, a key naturalization candidate for the national team, is staying put in Asia after securing a stint in the Korean Basketball League, easing concerns that his sudden release in Taiwan could derail his availability for future Gilas call-ups.

Boatwright recently arrived in South Korea after signing with the Daegu KOGAS Pegasus, stepping in just weeks after his contract with the Taipei Fubon Braves was unexpectedly terminated. The development is significant not just for his professional career, but also for Gilas Pilipinas, which has been monitoring his situation closely as his naturalization process continues to move forward.

That process gained momentum in November, when Boatwright appeared in congressional hearings alongside former University of the Philippines center Malick Diouf—being considered for the Gilas 3×3 pool—and Elizabeth Means of Gilas Women.

 At the time, the expectation was that Boatwright’s continued presence in Asian leagues would keep him within reach of the national program once eligibility hurdles are cleared.

Those plans briefly appeared uncertain when Fubon cut ties with the American forward shortly after his return from a lengthy injury layoff—his first stint back in competitive action.

“After careful evaluation and discussion by the coaching staff, it was ultimately decided to terminate the contract with Boatwright,” the Taiwanese club said in a statement released last week.

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6’11 Bennie Boatwright has joined Kogas Pegasus in KBL, teaming up with SJ Belangel and Ricardo Ratliffe. @TheDeanQuinito pic.twitter.com/KbanJuwA1L

— Genesis Olaes (@GenesisOla20371) January 4, 2026

The move sparked concern that Boatwright might head back to the United States in search of opportunities, potentially distancing himself from the Asian basketball circuit—and from Gilas’ immediate radar. Instead, the opposite happened.

Daegu KOGAS Pegasus swooped in, announcing his signing for the ongoing KBL season and providing Boatwright with a new platform in one of Asia’s most competitive leagues. His arrival also sets up an intriguing dynamic, as he now shares the locker room with former Gilas guard SJ Belangel.

Boatwright wasted little time suiting up, making his KBL debut on Monday. While Daegu absorbed an 87–77 loss to the Goyang Sono Skygunners led by fellow Gilas prospect Kevin Quiambao, Boatwright managed to make his presence felt with eight points, signaling the start of what could be a crucial stretch in rebuilding rhythm and form.

For Gilas Pilipinas, Boatwright’s move to Korea may prove timely. Remaining in Asia not only keeps him visible to national team stakeholders but also allows him to stay game-ready in a high-level environment while his naturalization process unfolds.

What once appeared to be a potential roadblock has instead turned into a detour—one that still leads in the same direction for both Boatwright and Gilas.

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