The national youth basketball team just got a new recruit, and he’s got a “tall” order to fill.
Philstar.com
According to reports, Fil-Aussie Ethan Kirkness has joined the Batang Gilas team, and is hoping to play for the FIBA Asia Under-16 championships.
Kirkness, who just turned 14, stands tall at 6-foot-9.
Currently, Kirkness is undergoing training sessions with ex-National Basketball League (NBL) player Greg Fox. And if things go well, Kirkness will make his first debut with the team in the FIBA games.
Kirkness got his Philippine passport earlier this year, and the SBP is working on his eligibility to play for the country under FIBA rules. A part of the rule is that Philippine passports must be issued before a foreign player turns 16.
Other than Kirkness, the Batang Gilas also have 6-foot-9 Kai sotto –son of Former PBA Player Erwin Sotto – under their belt; they hope the two tall players will be able form a strong team game in the next championship.
The SBP is also looking to recruit 6-7 Fil-Nigerian AJ Edu, who is based in Wales and holds a Philippine passport since age two.
What do you think of Batang Gilas’ upcoming roster? Will they have a strong chance in the FIBA U16 Championships?
