FORMER University of the Philippines (UP) big man Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Means inched closer to earning Filipino citizenship as the Senate passed on third and final reading bills that sought to grant their naturalization last Monday.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), in a post at its social media account last Monday, thanked the Senate, noting that the positive development was “another step forward for PH basketball.”
House Bills 6640 and 6641, authored by Sen. Francis Pangilinan, sought to make Diouf and Means Filipino citizens as the SBP is all-out in boosting the Philippines’ 3x3 program both for men and women.
Diouf is best remembered for playing a vital role in UP’s UAAP men’s basketball championship run in Season 84 back in 2022, where the Senegalese slotman earned the Finals Most Valuable Player award.
The 6-11 big man is seen as a vital piece for the Philippines’ quest to dominate the 3x3 event for men.
On the other hand, Means, listed at 6 feet, played college basketball for Westminster University, a Division II team.
“The SBP thanks the @senateph for their time and attention on this matter. This is another step forward for PH basketball. #deliverthedream,” SBP posted on social media.