FIBA backs the Philippines' stand on Blatche's eligibility for the Asian Games

September 6, 2014 | Manila, Philippines | The Philippines got a huge backing from no other than FIBA Secretary General Patrick Baumann regarding the Philippines' stand on Andray Blatche's eligibility to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. Mr. Baumann sent an email dated September 5 to IAGOC saying that ONLY FIBA can decide the eligibility of a player in an international basketball competition. You can read the full copy of the email below:

 
FIBA Secretary General Patrick Baumann's letter to Incheon Asian Games Organizing Committee (IAGOC) re Andray Blatche's eligibility to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2014 Incheon Asian Games
 

We have been informed that you are in charge of entering and accrediting various athletes for the upcoming Asian Games in Incheon and have just been informed that you have delisted from Entry one of the basketball athletes of the Philippine delegation.

We would like to inform you that the International Basketball Federation establishes the eligibility criteria for all basketball athletes worldwide for the purpose of their participation in national team competitions in official basketball competitions organized by or sanctioned by Fiba.

The player that you have prohibited Entry plays is registered in FIBA’s eligibility system as a player for the Philippines and has, in fact, just played several games this past week at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain for that country. It is quite confusing to hear that he is now not allowed to compete for the same team just a few weeks later.

You may not know, but—probably similar to other sports—FIBA’s eligibility rules apply, as an example, for all FIBA’s World Championships and for the Olympic Games. Also as an example, during an event like the Asian Games, FIBA’s International Referees officiate the Games and apply the Official Basketball Rules are edited by FIBA.

I am sure therefore that there must be a misunderstanding and I would kindly request that you review your decision and ally FIBA’s regulations on eligibility for all teams participating in the basketball tournament the Asian Games and re-enlist the Filipino player. This would certainly be fair for the athlete concerned and his country. Equally, if the same set of eligibility rules, namely that of the International Federation, is being applied to all international basketball events for national teams across the world, it ensures clarity for the media and the fans alike and credibility for the sport.

We look forward to hearing back from you on this matter and thank you for your understanding

Wishing you a very successful event in Incheon, I remain

Sincerely yours
Patrick Baumann
Secretary General