Non-Filipino Andray Blatche to play for Philippines in FIBA World Cup, become citizen

It's all happening for Andray Blatche.

Born in Syracuse, NY and splitting his high school years between there and South Kent, CT, Blatche is finally being recognized for his Filipino heritage.

Wait, what?

Yes, according to The Brooklyn Game, Blatche's quest to become a naturalized Filipino is nearly complete, with the Filipino Senate meeting on May 26 to formally approve his request, despite the fact that he is not of Filipino descent. Seriously.

From The Brooklyn Game:

Reyes said Blatche’s choice of playing for the Philippines is unprecedented. “It’s not every day you get a legitimate NBA player to renounce his eligibility to play for any country except the Philippines in FIBA,” an SBP official said. “Andray isn’t in between leagues. He just finished playing for the Brooklyn Nets in the playoffs. Yet he’s committed to play for the Philippines and he’s excited to do it.”
...
Reyes said since Blatche lives in Miami during the offseason, Gilas will set up training camp in the Florida city after playing at the FIBA Asia Cup in Wuhan, China, on July 11-19. The camp will introduce Blatche to his Gilas teammates, including Marcus Douthit. In the run-up to the World Cup, Blatche will play about 10 practice games with Gilas.

By playing for the Philippines in international play, Blatche will no longer be able to play for another country under the FIBA banner. Sorry, Team USA.