MVP assures that Marcus Douthit cleared by OCA to play in Asian Games amid protests

Marcus Douthit is cleared to play for the Asian Games.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas head Manuel V. Pangilinan reassured that the country has received authorization from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) for Douthit, who was tapped to replace ineligible naturalized player Andray Blatche, to play for the Philippine national men’s basketball team in the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, Korea.

Marcus cleared by OCA in their Sept 8 letter to us and by IAGOC during the DRM last Sept 11.
— Manny V. Pangilinan (@iamMVP) September 18, 2014

We have fully complied w/ all procedures and requirements making Marcus eligible and part of a 12-man roster.
— Manny V. Pangilinan (@iamMVP) September 18, 2014

Reports surfaced on Wednesday evening that rival Asian teams planned on protesting Douthit’s inclusion in the Gilas Pilipinas roster due to a rule that only allows changes to the lineup if there are injuries.

He was tapped to replace Andray Blatche, who was deemed ineligible for the Asian Games by the organizers. But the addition of Douthit, as well as Jimmy Alapag to replace Jayson Castro, was done with the blessing of the OCA.

Gilas is planning on heading into the tournament with 12-man lineup of Douthit, Alapag, Gabe Norwood, Jeff Chan, Ranidel De Ocampo, LA Tenorio, Paul Lee, June Mar Fajardo, Marc Pingris, Japeth Aguilar, Gary David and Jared Dillinger.

We will go to battle with Marcus JD Jimmy LA Paul Jeff Gary Gabe Ranidel Japeth Junmar Ping
— Manny V. Pangilinan (@iamMVP) September 18, 2014

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