WITH former UP Fighting Maroon Quentin Millora-Brown (QMB) now cleared to play as a local for Gilas Pilipinas, fans are now turning their attention to another frontcourt talent—this time, a more athletic one: Mike Phillips.
The national team’s recent showing fell short compared to their earlier outings in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, leaving fans disappointed with the current roster construction and overall system.
Veteran sports analyst Quinito “The Dean” Henson is now strongly advocating and pushing for DLSU Green Archers’ 6-foot-8 bruiser to be recognized as a local player for Gilas Pilipinas.
Phillips as a Local?
In an interview with a media, Henson noted that Phillips has fully embraced life in the Philippines — having lived in the country for six years, represented it in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, and even learned to speak the language.
“He would be an asset… he already played for the Philippines in the SEA Games. I think it’s time for him to be recognized as a local by FIBA,” Henson said.
“He talks Tagalog, he’s been here six years, he has certainly given of himself to the Filipino people. What more can you ask from someone like Michael Phillips? Let him play for Gilas; let’s not be a hindrance,” he added.
Henson also stressed that Gilas shouldn’t depend solely on naturalized player Justin Brownlee, and instead begin developing younger talent, especially since the longtime Barangay Ginebra import isn’t getting any younger.
“With QMB there, things are looking good. But it shouldn’t only be QMB. It’s time for us to look at our roster, make it younger, make it bigger, make it sharper when it comes to shooting threes. And as far as younger talents, you’ve got Michael Phillips, for instance,” he said.
Keep It Simple
The veteran analyst also compared the Philippines’ eligibility process to those of nearby countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, saying it should be easier for players like Phillips to qualify.
“Why do we have to make it such a hard process? Lester Prosper is playing for Indonesia. Joseph Obasa, who played for Ateneo, is now with Malaysia,” Henson questioned.
“Other countries make it easy for those who want to play. We shouldn’t be the ones putting up roadblocks for our own players,” he went on to say.
For Henson, giving Phillips local status isn’t just about strengthening the Gilas lineup — it’s also about recognizing his dedication and contributions to Philippine basketball throughout his years of living and breathing the sport in the country.
