Converge's super rookie Juan Gomez de Liaño. PBA Images
MANILA — Juan Gomez de Liaño has been invited to join the Gilas Pilipinas pool ahead of the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Coach Tim Cone said that while he's not a shoo-in for a roster spot, he will be on board to train with the Nationals as they commence practicing on Tuesday at the Blue Eagle Gym in Ateneo de Manila University.
"We've invited Juan to the practice. This doesn't necessarily mean he's going to be in the Final 12, but he will come and join us," said Cone, as shared on the PBA's website.
READ: Gilas Pilipinas pool expands with addition of Millora-Brown, Abarrientos, Kouame
The former University of the Philippines standout impressed Cone with his stellar outing so far for the Converge FiberXers.
De Liaño's visa is one of the Converge rookie's pros, as Gilas faces some "visa issues."
"Right now, we are considering him (Gomez de Liaño) obviously. We have him in practice. If we continue to have visa issues or God-forbid, someone gets injured or something, he could very well go," said Cone, as shared on the same news release. "He's got his visa, and he is on the list, so he could be part of the 12."
READ: Tim Cone says Quentin Millora-Brown to suit up for Gilas in November qualifiers
Meanwhile, big man Quentin Millora-Brown will also be integrated into the national team's system during their training camp.
He was included in the pool last month, together with RJ Abarrientos and Ange Kouame.
Gilas' task will be facing No. 81 Guam twice— first, in its home court in November, and right here in the Philippines on December 1.