FILIPINA-American stalwart Mai-Loni Henson banners the 16-strong pool of Gilas Pilipinas women, setting the stage for her national team debut in the 31st Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Hanoi.
A product of University of Washington, Ms. Henson obtained her dual citizenship last year and is eligible to reinforce the Nationals right away in the biennial meet on May 12 to 23.
Joining Ms. Henson in the Gilas 5-on-5 pool is the 2019 SEA Games championship core of Janine Pontejos, Afril Bernardino, Clare Castro, Khate Castillo, Chack Cabinbin and Andrea Tongco.
Veteran guard Gemma Miranda is also back in the squad with new players Katrina Guytingco, Mikka Cacho, Monique del Carmen, Ella Fajardo, Camille Clarin, Angel Surada, Kristine Cayabyab and Karl Ann Pingol.
Seasoned anchor Jack Animam, however, is out of the Gilas roster this time due to her ongoing recovery from an ACL injury she suffered in her stint in Serbia. — John Bryan Ulanday
