Kouame called up as backup for naturalized player Brownlee

Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone clarified that naturalized player Ange Kouame's inclusion in the 15-man pool for the 2025 Fiba Asia Cup Qualifiers is a precautionary measure for Justin Brownlee.

Cone stated that Brownlee remains the primary choice for the naturalized player spot, with Kouame serving as a backup in case of unforeseen circumstances affecting Brownlee.

Kouame is also seen as valuable for training purposes, as he can provide practice against bigger players for June Mar Fajardo.

Brownlee is expected to play in both upcoming qualifying games against New Zealand on November 21 and Hong Kong on November 24.

An earlier plan to include Bennie Boatwright in the naturalized player spot was halted due to immigration issues, but the team hopes he will be available soon.

Kouame, who is currently playing for Meralco, was among the 15 players called up for training sessions at Inspire Academy in Laguna.

The national team is preparing for the upcoming qualifying games.