By El Amigo
MANILA — Calvin Oftana is making a late return to Gilas Pilipinas, securing the final spot on the Philippine roster for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
The TNT Tropang 5G forward was called up as a replacement for naturalized player Justin Brownlee, completing the 12-man lineup just two days before Gilas begins its bid to retain the Asian Games men’s basketball gold medal.
Oftana’s inclusion came after an injury-hit stretch that had placed his availability in doubt. But Gilas coach Tim Cone said the 30-year-old forward has returned to practice with TNT and is ready to suit up for the national team.
Cone also expects Oftana to quickly adapt despite the late call, citing his familiarity with the Gilas system and previous experience with the national team.
“Because of the system we are running and his previous experience in the window teams, he’s a plug-and-play player and will fit right in,” Cone said.
Oftana welcomed the opportunity to return to international competition, describing his call-up as a “quick turnaround.”
“Answering the call, quick turnaround,” he posted on social media.
“Honored to represent the Philippines in the Asian Games and wear the Gilas jersey with pride,” he added.
The 6-foot-5 forward is also the lone player from the Philippines’ gold-medal squad in the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou to make the current roster.
Oftana joins RJ Abarrientos, Jerrick Ahanmisi, Justin Arana, Justine Baltazar, Sedrick Barefield, Brandon Bates, Robert Bolick, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, Zav Lucero, Adrian Nocum and Don Trollano.
Gilas opens its title defense against Bahrain on Sept. 11, meets Kazakhstan on Sept. 12 and faces China on Sept. 14.
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