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| Black Bears' big man Quentin Millora-Brown (42) tries to block the shot of Gilas Pilipinas' Justin Brownlee. Photo: Rappler. |
Despite efforts by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) to submit documentation proving Millora‑Brown secured his Philippine passport before age 16—a key requirement under FIBA rules—the federation’s ruling remains unchanged. However, SBP executive director Erika Dy expressed optimism that the classification could still be reversed. She noted the FIBA decision is not necessarily final and that the process to appeal remains open.
The 6‑foot‑10 center, who led the UP Fighting Maroons to the UAAP championship last season, has insisted all year that he meets eligibility requirements. His agent, Tod Seidel, confirmed that Millora‑Brown is appealing the FIBA ruling and preparing to formally request reclassification, emphasizing his desire to honor his Filipino heritage by wearing the national jersey.
National team head coach Tim Cone has publicly expressed his willingness to welcome Millora‑Brown into the Gilas pool if eligibility is resolved. Cone stated that SBP, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and FIBA have the authority in this process, and that the final call to include QMB will depend on their assessment and approval.
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| Quentin Millora-Brown. Photo: Joseph Sanvictores. |
Currently signed with the Macau Black Bears, Millora‑Brown suited up against Gilas on July 28 in a tune-up game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum — turning what might have been a tryout into a matchup as an opposing player. This contest serves as the team’s final preparation before heading to the FIBA Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia.
His exclusion leaves Gilas without an experienced, internationally seasoned big man at a time when key players like Kai Sotto remain sidelined due to injury and June Mar Fajardo’s status is uncertain. Perasol, director of UP’s athletics program, emphasized that ultimately Coach Cone’s decision will dictate Millora‑Brown’s inclusion in the national pool.
As part of his appeal, SBP is exploring alternate pathways, including satisfying residency requirements as done with other dual nationals in previous years. FIBA has previously granted exceptions—such as with Chris Newsome—even if players received passports after the age limit. SBP and UP officials remain hopeful Millora‑Brown’s case could follow a similar route.
With his professional career poised to begin in Europe following a stint in Macau, Millora‑Brown continues to hope that one day he’ll don the Gilas uniform—not as a naturalized import, but as a proud local contributor to Philippine basketball’s international campaign.