UAAP standout Mike Phillips eyes Gilas Pilipinas return for 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) may cut its Season 88 men’s basketball tournament short to give way to the national team’s campaign in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) this December in Bangkok, Thailand.

Talks are already underway between the UAAP and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) about possibly adjusting the collegiate league’s calendar. Far Eastern University (FEU) official and UAAP Season 88 vice president Mark Molina confirmed the development during a press conference on Monday, September 15.

“UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag and I recently met with SBP executive director Erika Dy to explore ways to possibly finish the UAAP basketball tournament early so that UAAP players can participate in the SEA Games. There will be a decision soon. The board will meet regarding this, and we will update you,” Molina said.

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De La Salle University star Mike Phillips welcomed the development and is eyeing another stint with Gilas Pilipinas. Head coach Norman Black has already expressed interest in reinforcements from the UAAP ranks, particularly to strengthen the frontline, if they are cleared to join.

Can Mike Phillips sacrifice La Salle for a SEA Games stint?

DLSU forward Mike Phillips share his thoughts on the possibility of playing for Gilas again in the Southeast Asian Games in December despite the uncertainty if the schedule will coincide with the UAAP. | 📷 Zeus Valdez pic.twitter.com/Q370VXjg14

— Fastbreak (@fastbreaknewsph) September 15, 2025

Phillips, who stands at 6-foot-7 and first played for Gilas during the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia, is eager for another chance to represent his country.

“Last time, nung nakasama ako sa SEA Games, it was like an out-of-body experience. Parang hindi pa rin nagsi-sink in when I see those pictures. I’m really praying that whatever God has planned, if it’s His will for me to hopefully have an opportunity to try out and be part of the national team, of course, I’d really love to,” Phillips said in a media interaction.

For now, nothing is confirmed, though Phillips said he will stay in peak condition in case the opportunity arises.

“Right now, it’s just about staying in the moment. I have had some conversations but right now, I’m really focusing on La Salle. I was able to really see how Coach Black works, how he leads, and I became an even bigger fan.

“But hopefully, God willing, we can both play in the UAAP and also in the SEA Games. Hopefully, schedules align. I’m definitely willing — 100% willing — to play and represent. I still have my medal. It’s right in my cabinet, and I still talk to a lot of the guys I was with in that SEA Games,” Phillips concluded.

The 33rd Southeast Asian Games will take place from December 9 to 20 in Bangkok, Thailand. Phillips will surely carry fond memories into the tournament, having been part of Gilas’ gold medal-winning squad in the last edition of the Games, held in Cambodia in 2023.

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