Robert Bolick has set aside his PBA campaign with NLEX to pursue gold with Gilas Pilipinas at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok. With the team in the semifinals of the men’s basketball tournament, Bolick hopes to carry his form from the Philippine Cup into the regional competition.

“Siyempre country, ito muna. Priority ito,” Bolick said before Gilas kicked off its campaign. NLEX was among the top teams in the All-Filipino tournament with a 6-2 record before Bolick skipped the next three games to play for the national team.

Gilas adjusts roster under unusual circumstances

Bolick is one of five PBA players called to represent the Philippines after Gilas had to adjust quickly when Thailand banned naturalized players and those who failed to secure a passport before turning 16. Initially, the team formed a pool assuming the passport-only rule had been approved in writing.

Coach Norman Black secured commitments from Bolick, Blackwater’s Dalph Panopio, Abu Tratter, and Titan Ultra’s Von Pessumal, while TNT’s Poy Erram joined as a last-minute replacement for the injured Allen Liwag.

“Hindi naman talaga kami nakalineup pero ‘yun nga nagkaproblema,” Bolick said. “Tinanong NLEX kung pwede ako, tinanong ako kung pwede ako. Siyempre, for the country bakit hindi?” He added that he was grateful for NLEX team governor Ronald Dulatre and coach Jong Uichico for allowing him the opportunity to represent the country.

Bolick key to Gilas in semifinals

Bolick has been a significant contributor for Gilas in the first two games, leading the team to wins over Malaysia and Vietnam. He is expected to continue playing a pivotal role as the Philippines prepares for its semifinal match.

The Philippines will face either Vietnam or Indonesia in the men’s basketball semifinals on Thursday, Dec. 18, at Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok.