Ivorian center Kuoame is officially a Filipino

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Ange Kouame is now a full-fledged Filipino citizen.

After almost a year of processing his requirements, Gilas Pilipinas center and Ateneo Blue Eagles member Ange Kouame has been granted Filipino citizenship.

The news came after President Rodrigo Duterte signed Kouame’s naturalization bill, making him available for the upcoming third window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers.

“Although Kouame’s presence is crucial for these two tournaments, having him as an official member of the squad in the upcoming games is an early investment as we build towards the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup,” SBP president Al Panlilio wrote in his statement.

A few months ago, Kouame was expected to join his brothers in Gilas when they went to the Manama bubble for the FIBA Asia Cup second window but failed to play because the bill was still unsigned by the president.

Now that the bill has been signed and made official, Kouame will not only be taking part in all of the international stints the country will join but will be able to work on his development development until 2023.

“It’s a great day for Philippine basketball and we’re thankful for the full support of our basketball community. Kami sa SBP ay naniniwalang ika’y lalaban Para sa Bayan. Maligayang pagbati, Kabayang Ange Kouame!” ended Panlilio’s statement.

As of now, Kouame is currently with the Gilas Pilipinas at the Inspire Sports Academy training bubble in Calamba, Laguna.