Gilas adds last-minute replacements amid Asian Games eligibility issues

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 19) — In an abrupt move, Gilas Pilpinas has tweaked its lineup days before the start of the 19th Asian Games in China due to eligibility issues.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Tuesday that Chris Ross, CJ Perez, Kevin Alas, and Arvin Tolentino are possibly replacing Mo Tautuaa, Calvin Abueva, Jason Perkins, and Terrence Romeo in the roster.

Meanwhile, Marcio Lassiter will take the place of RR Pogoy who has withdrawn from the national team as he is dealing with a "serious health issue."

Abueva and Perkins were not part of the original 60-man pool that the SBP submitted to the Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee (HAGOC).

The two forwards chosen by Gilas interim head coach Tim Cone as replacements for Jamie Malonzo and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser were ruled out due to injuries.

While they are included in the 60-man pool, Romeo and Tautuaa were left out in an updated 37-man pool which is what the HAGOC followed.

All the players are practicing together at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna while the SBP waits for the organizing committee's final verdict which is expected to be released in 24 to 48 hours.