Abando back in Gilas for FIBA WC Qualifiers

Manila Times - Nov 11, 2026

FILIPINO high-leaping guard Rhenz Abando is set to return to Gilas Pilipinas three years after he last played for the national team in the FIBA 2023 World Cup in Manila. The former NCAA Most Valuable Player was named to the final 12 for the fifth window of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifers on Wednesday as announced by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas in its official social media accounts. Abando, who currently plays for the Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters in the Korean Basketball League, will be joined by naturalized player Bennie Boatwright. Boatwright will be making his Gilas debut on Nov. 27 when the Philippines faces Syria, followed by Iran on Nov. 29 at the Karisma Arena in Seremban, Malaysia. Returning also for the national squad include big men Quentin Millora-Brown and Mike Phillips, who both missed action in the fourth window in Manila, where Gilas beat Jordan and Iran. Kai Sotto will be leading the local squad, along with Dwight Ramos, Kevin Quiambao, AJ Edu, Scottie Thompson, CJ Perez, AJ Edu, Chris Newsome, along with Juan Gomez de Liano.

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