Malick Diouf eyed to reinforce Gilas 3×3 if naturalization goes through

Malick Diouf is poised to become a key reinforcement for Gilas Pilipinas’ 3×3 program after taking a major step toward naturalization.

The 6-foot-11 former University of the Philippines standout has formally begun the process to acquire Filipino citizenship, joining Bennie Boatwright and Elizabeth Means in a trio of naturalization efforts being supported in Congress. 

House Bill 05899, filed by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III, seeks to grant Diouf Filipino nationality as the measure moves through legislative review.

The big man had previously served as a practice player back in 2021, and his formal integration into the national 3×3 roster now appears to be a matter of time.

His length, mobility, and defensive presence fill a key need for the group as they continue to build a competitive core for future Asian and FIBA 3×3 events.

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#WATCH: NO BRAINER

UP great Malick Diouf says that obtaining Filipino citizenship has long been his goal, and he considers it an honor to one day play for Gilas 3×3 🇵🇭🏀#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/hfGa68TKEx

📹 @ErnestTuazon /Tiebreaker Times #LabanPilipinas pic.twitter.com/nty5ejdiRu

— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) November 22, 2025

The former UAAP MVP emphasized that he is fully open to joining the 5-on-5 Gilas Pilipinas squad if ever the national program calls on him, noting that representing the country at the highest level, regardless of format, is an honor he would not hesitate to accept. 

His naturalization move not only strengthens the 3×3 team but also expands the talent pool for the 5×5 roster, especially at the frontcourt, where depth has been an ongoing concern for Gilas. 

Diouf displayed his readiness in the recent FIBA 3×3 Manila Challenger, suiting up for Mandaluyong SBP and averaging 5.3 points and 7.7 rebounds in only three games.

Still, eligibility complexities remain. Certain tournaments, including past editions of the SEA Games, have imposed strict limits on the number of naturalized players, forcing national teams to make difficult roster choices.

However, the SEA Games Federation Council’s recent adoption of a “passport-only” rule, which allows players with valid national passports to compete regardless of their naturalization status, may ease future restrictions and open more doors for players like Diouf.

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