Ange Kouame's naturalization official after getting nod of President

Ange Kouame can now suit up for Gilas Pilipinas.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) on Tuesday confirmed that the 23-year-old cager was granted Filipino citizenship after his naturalization papers passed through the desk of President Rodrigo Duterte.

"The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is elated to announce that Angelo Kouame’s Filipino naturalization is now official," said SBP in a statement.

"The SBP thanks all of our allies in both houses whose support has been crucial in pushing this legislation to further strengthen our Gilas Pilipinas Men."

Koaume will now undergo the final steps required by FIBA  before a naturalized player can see action for a country and SBP is  confident that big man will be able to play during the country's hosting of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers and the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Serbia. —Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News