TNT Tropang 5G team manager Jojo Lastimosa expressed doubts about the possibility of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson switching his international allegiance to Gilas Pilipinas, despite the import’s reported interest in representing the Philippines.
Lastimosa acknowledged that Hollis-Jefferson, who has represented Jordan in international basketball, may want to play for the Philippine national team. However, he questioned whether FIBA regulations would allow such a move after the forward had already been naturalized by another country.
“RHJ wants to but I don’t think switching allegiance is allowed by FIBA once you have been naturalized once,” Lastimosa said in a message to Fastbreak.
The issue surfaced after sports columnist Quinito Henson discussed the possibility of Hollis-Jefferson suiting up for Gilas, noting that the switch would require approval from the Jordan Basketball Federation and FIBA.
Henson also said FIBA would need to grant an exception to allow the TNT import to represent the Philippines, citing the importance of supporting the development of the country’s national basketball program.
Hollis-Jefferson previously represented Jordan in international competition and has become a familiar figure in Philippine basketball through his stints with TNT in the PBA.
While his potential inclusion could provide Gilas with another high-level option, any change in his international eligibility would depend on FIBA’s rules and the necessary approvals. (Adrian Co)
