MANILA, Philippines — De La Salle’s outgoing big man Mike Phillips has been declared a local by FIBA, the world’s governing basketball body, making the athletic Filipino-American eligible to play for Gilas Pilipinas in all international tournaments.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas made the official announcement on Saturday as it thanked FIBA “for its swift action in hearing our request and classifying Mike Phillips as a player without restriction.”
The slam-dunking Phillips already donned the Philippine team jersey when Gilas, coached by Chot Reyes, regained the gold medal in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games men’s basketball after beating host nation Cambodia in Phnom Penh.
The La Salle strongman though, who recently led the Green Archers to the UAAP men’s basketball championship, was previously classified a naturalized player, a status that prevented him from suiting up for Gilas in the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok, Thailand last December.
The change in status officially clears the way for the UAAP Season 88 Finals MVP to represent the Philippines in all FIBA tournaments.
“It’s a blessing and a huge honor to officially be eligible to represent the Philippines. The opportunity to play for the national team is a longtime dream and an answered prayer! I’m beyond grateful to FIBA, the SBP, and everyone who supported this process,” said Phillips in a statement.
“I’m ready to fight fight for our country. I’ll give my best and with all my heart. I cannot wait to compete alongside my fellow Filipinos as we continue pushing Philippine basketball forward.”
The 6-foot-6 Phillips, who ended his UAAP basketball career as a two-time champion, averaged solid stats line of 13.3 points and 13.7 rebounds in La Salle’s triumphant three-game title series against the University of the Philippines.