Thirdy Ravena leads 19-man Gilas pool for FIBA Asia Cup bubble

Thirdy Ravena is back with the Philippine national men's basketball team as part of the Gilas Pilipinas pool that entered bubble camp on Saturday in preparation for the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup in August.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) special assistant to the president Ryan Gregorio confirmed the development to GMA News Online, saying 18 other players along with team officials have made their way to the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna.

Joining Ravena are Dwight Ramos, Ange Kouame, Will Navarro, Isaac Go, Tzaddy Rangel, Justine Baltazar, RJ Abarrientos, SJ Belangel, and brothers Mike and Matt Nieto.

Also coming in are Allyn Bulanadi, Kemark Carino, Geo Chiu, Jordan Heading, Dave Ildefonso, Rey Suerte, Carl Tamayo, and Jaydee Tungcab.

Head coach Tab Baldwin leads the delegation along with other team officials in Yvette Ruiz, Sandro Soriano, Jong Uichico, Boyet Fernandez, and Dex Aseron.

Assistant coach Sandy Arespachochaga, meanwhile, is tipped to enter tomorrow, Monday.

Meanwhile, Gregorio said the discussion on Kai Sotto's participation in the continental showpiece is still ongoing and stressed the federation remains open to adding players into the pool.

"We are still aligning with the schedule of Kai. It is a continuing discussion," he said.

"So far, that is the list of players that we have identified. We are open to adding when the situation calls for it. We are open."

The 2021 FIBA Asia Cup is tipped to run from August 17 to 29 in Jakarta.

—JMB, GMA News