Manila: The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has submitted its shortlist of players for the national team aiming to defend the men's basketball gold at the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. SBP executive director Erika Dy confirmed that the roster has been forwarded to the Asiad Organizing Committee, although it does not yet represent the final 12-man lineup for Gilas Pilipinas, coached by Tim Cone.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dy stated that changes can still be made to the roster, including for the women's basketball squad, in the lead-up to the Games scheduled from September 10 to 20. She mentioned that just like in the Southeast Asian Games, alterations can occur until the final stages. Dy reassured that the core players of the current national team will be representing the Philippines in their quest to retain the championship title.

The shortlist was derived from a previously submitted 30-member long list by the SBP. Some players, such as Brandon Bates and Sedrick Barefield, won't be eligible as locals since the Asian Games is not sanctioned by FIFA. Additionally, Gilas regulars Dwight Ramos and AJ Edu will not participate in the Asiad due to their commitments in Japan's B.League Manila Games on September 9 and 10, where Ramos plays for Levanga Hokkaido and Edu for the Gumma Crane Thunders. Dy remarked that the schedule conflict makes it unlikely for Dwight and AJ to be available for the Asiad.

Gilas Pilipinas made history by ending the country's 61-year gold medal drought at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, in 2023, with a victory over Jordan in the finals, 70-60. The late Carlos 'Caloy' Loyzaga had previously led the Philippine team to triumph in Jakarta in 1962, marking the last of four consecutive gold medals for the nation.