Bennie Boatwright takes oath, moves closer to completing naturalization process

MANILA – Bennie Boatwright moves one step closer to donning the tri-colors as he nears completion of his naturalization process.

Boatwright has taken his oath of allegiance as a Filipino citizen, according to a post by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas on Wednesday.

In the same post, the SBP said Boatwright will still have to complete the necessary documentation in order to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas.

“The final step now is the processing of his Philippine Passport,” the federation wrote.

The naturalization process, which began in 2024, was stalled after Boatwright suffered an Achilles injury that same year and was out for a lengthy period of time.

Boatwright’s bid for naturalization resumed last May, after he returned to reinforce the San Miguel Beermen in the PBA 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

“It’s been a long process but we finally got it done,” Boatwright said in a video posted by former senator and now-DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino.

The development is positive news as Boatwright was eyed to be the country’s naturalized player for the 2026 Asian Games, but was unable to suit up for Gilas.  

With the Philippine passport up next, Boatwright moves closer to possibly joining Gilas its naturalized player for the next window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers next month.

Gilas will return to action on November 27 against Syria, then on November 29 against Iran in Seremban, Malaysia.