Andray Blatche will represent Philippines in FIBA World Cup
Andray Blatche has been rumored to be considering opting out of his contract with the Brooklyn Nets, and he will be looking to showcase his skills at the FIBA World Cup. It’s no news that Blatche was looking to gain a Filipino citizenship in order to represent the country in international competition, but the latest development is that the senate has officially approved it.
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The senate unanimously approved Blatche’s bill and the only remaining step is for the country’s president to sign it.
“Andray Blatche has openly expressed his desire to play for the Philippines,” Filipino Senator Sonny Angara said about the case, via FIBA.com. “He is in a position, at age 28, to make significant contributions to Philippine basketball and accordingly, eligible for the conferment of the honor of being a Philippine citizen.
“Blatche is possibly the best center from the NBA that we can get who is willing to shun more lucrative offers now and in the future just to be part of our national team.”
The World Cup will obviously be a good opportunity for Blatche to stay active and keep NBA teams interested in his services. While he put together an admirable season with the Nets, averaging 11.2 points and 5.3 rebounds, he was still coming off the bench for the majority of the season.
If he chooses to opt out of his tiny contract with the Nets, he could easily pursue a multi-year deal for more money elsewhere in the league.
The FIBA World Cup will take place in Spain and tips off on Aug. 30.