“No changes”: SBP provides update on Bennie Boatwright’s Philippine citizenship process

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is moving forward with its long-term plan to deepen the Gilas Pilipinas talent pool, confirming that former San Miguel Beermen import Bennie Boatwright has agreed to undergo the naturalization process to become eligible for the national team.

SBP president Al Panlilio recently confirmed Boatwright’s commitment, emphasizing the federation’s aim to build a stable lineup of naturalized players who can support Gilas Pilipinas under current head coach Tim Cone.

Providing an update to the media on Monday, August 18, SBP executive director Erika Dy revealed that the process is now awaiting clearance from the Philippine government.

“There are no changes regarding our pursuit of Bennie Boatwright as a naturalized player at this moment. We are just waiting for Congress to schedule the hearings for him,” Dy said. “He is set to play in Taiwan right now, so it’s easier for him to come over when called.”

The 29-year-old forward’s naturalization journey began in 2024, when former Senator Sonny Angara filed Senate Bill No. 2646 during the 19th Congress, proposing Philippine citizenship for Boatwright. However, the process was delayed after Boatwright suffered an Achilles injury in August 2024, sidelining him and pushing the plan to the backburner.

FIBA: SBP gives an update on Bennie Boatwright’s naturalization for Gilas https://t.co/tfQ8JNDfIa

— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) August 18, 2025

Boatwright rose to prominence during the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, joining San Miguel as a mid-conference import. His impact was immediate and immense, leading the Beermen to the championship.

He averaged 30.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, and played a pivotal role in San Miguel’s title-clinching win over the Magnolia Hotshots, 104-102, in Game 6 of the finals on February 14 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

While Boatwright’s potential addition to Gilas is a promising development, it’s unlikely he will join the national team for its next scheduled competition—the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers in November. Justin Brownlee, who has already cemented his role as the team’s primary naturalized player, remains the frontrunner for the upcoming window.

Nevertheless, the SBP remains committed to finalizing Boatwright’s naturalization, viewing him as a key asset for Gilas Pilipinas in future international campaigns.

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