Robin Lopez 'here for Gilas' if Andray Blatche stops playing for Phillippines

While a player like Andray Blatche becoming a naturalized citizen and suiting up for the Phillippines has drawn the ire of some, count Portland Trail Blazers center Robin Lopez as someone in favor of such an arrangement.

In fact, the North Hollywood-born 7-footer is willing to step in and replace Blatche, should anything happen in the future where Blatche was no longer the Phillippines' designated naturalized player. On Thursday, Lopez said he's fallen in love with the country after visiting for three days, enough that he's ready to suit up for FIBA competition.

As Lopez told SPIN.ph:

If the whole Andray Blatche thing doesn’t work out, I’m here for Gilas. I don’t wish any harm to come to Dray because obviously he’s played his heart out for that team and he’s a great fit.

I’d love to (play for the country). I realized the passion these people have for basketball.

The relationship between Blatche and the Philippine team started off pretty well at the FIBA World Cup, as Blatche ranked second in the tournament in scoring and first in rebounds. While they went just 1-4, they were outscored by just 21 points across the entire tournament and were far more competitive than most expected.

Still, if that doesn't work out, you know, holler at your boy RoLo.