Gilas coach Norman Black banks on Robert Bolick to deliver leadership and scoring at the SEA Games

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) on Thursday, November 4, announced the final 12-man Gilas Pilipinas roster for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok.

The squad is led by Thirdy Ravena, Cedrick Manzano, Dalph Panopio, Robert Bolick, Matthew Wright, Ray Parks, Von Pessumal, Abu Tratter, Jamie Malonzo, and Veejay Pre, marking a roster that has undergone several changes amid shifting eligibility rules from the Thailand SEA Games Organizing Committee.

Initially, the SBP had included naturalized standouts Justin Brownlee and Angelo Kouame, but both were later withdrawn after organizers ruled that naturalized players — and athletes who did not obtain a passport before the age of 16 — are ineligible to compete.

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Despite the controversy surrounding the eligibility rules, Gilas head coach Norman Black is pleased to have a tested playmaker like Robert Bolick on the roster. Black emphasized the veteran NLEX Road Warriors guard’s leadership and scoring ability, which will be vital for the team’s success.

MANILA, Philippines — Amid the challenges of coming up with a team, Gilas Pilipinas coach Norman Black is glad he’s got a tested playmaker in NLEX guard Robert Bolick to man the ship when the Philippines defends its Southeast Asian Games men’s basketball title next week in Bangko pic.twitter.com/j5bx7g7aV3

— The Manila Times (@TheManilaTimes) December 9, 2025

“Bolick brings a lot of talent to begin with. He scores the basketball and his leadership is unmatched as far as I’m concerned. He also handles the ball real well,” Black said in a media interaction.

While Bolick is primarily known for his scoring, Black also highlighted his underrated defensive skills.

“He is a defensive player and an exceptional player in the PBA. I’m sure he will bring that talent to the national team,” Black added.

The 30-year-old remains a key contributor for NLEX in the ongoing 2025 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup, averaging 16.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game, with the Road Warriors in contention for a top-four finish.

A standout for the De La Salle Green Archers in the UAAP, Bolick was the third overall pick in the 2018 PBA Draft by NorthPort Batang Pier. He has also played internationally for Fukushima Firebonds in Japan’s B2 League, in addition to his career with NLEX.

Bolick’s accolades include the PBA scoring champion award in 2024, PBA Co-Order of Merit in 2021, PBA All-Star Game Co-MVP in 2024, and two PBA All-Star nominations in 2023 and 2024.

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