Arvin Tolentino keeps door open for Gilas 

Given another shot at wearing the Philippine colors, Arvin Tolentino says he’s ready and available to do it.

The 6‑foot‑5 gunner, now a key contributor for the Seoul SK Knights in the Korean Basketball League has his club among the six squads advancing to the postseason that starts Wednesday at Studio City. 

He said that if the call from the national team comes again, Tolentino makes it clear he’s eager to answer it.

“It’s an honor. It’s a dream of mine to play for the national team,” said the 30‑year‑old forward, who already knows the system under national coach Tim Cone from his first three Philippine Basketball Association seasons with Barangay Ginebra.

Tolentino’s national team resume is already decorated. He was part of the Gilas Pilipinas Men’s national basketball team squad that broke the country’s one‑year gold medal drought at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

He also helped the Philippines reclaim men’s basketball gold at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, competing under coaches Chot Reyes and Cone.

Although he’s watching the current Gilas core compete in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, which feature a competitive Group A that includes Australia, New Zealand and Guam, Tolentino said he’s fully behind his compatriots and believes they’ll give their best for the campaign.

As he refers to teammates such as  Kevin Quiambao and Carl Tamayo, also excelling in Korea, he said “Whoever is playing for sure naman they’re give their 100 percent. And full support ako sa kanila.”

Off the court, Tolentino has embraced life in South Korea while making adjustments on it. Since signing a multi‑year deal with the SK Knights after leaving the PBA, he’s been working to adapt to the KBL’s fast pace and team systems, even as his role varies from game to game.

Tolentino now also has a chance to make history, aiming to become the first Filipino to win an EASL championship since Rhenz Abando captured the title with Anyang KGC during the 2023 Champions Week. But rather than feel the pressure, he stresses the importance of staying focused on his game.

As his club pursues postseason success, Tolentino’s gaze remains on both domestic triumphs and renewed national pride, keeping the door open for another chapter in a career already marked by growth, resilience, and unflagging love for the game.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!