The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas welcomed the arrival of Andray Blatche, who is expected to play a vital role in the Philippines' campaign in the 2019 FIBA World Cup beginning in August.

“It is a great development that he is here early to get reacquainted with his teammates and coaches, as we get ourselves ready for the FIBA World Cup in China,” said Al Panlilio, president of the SBP, the sport's national governing body.

A photo of Blatche and head coach Yeng Guiao, together with Gilas Pilipinas team manager Gabby Cui and Ryan Gregorio, special assistant to Panlilio, was shared on Instagram by Cui.

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A post shared by Gabby Cui (@gabbycui) on Jul 12, 2019 at 11:51pm PDT

Blatche is expected to practice with the team on Monday.

“We are excited to see a full Gilas Pilipinas roster who will be ready to fight for flag and country,” Panlilio added.

Panlilio said the team will play in a pocket tournament in Spain and play in tuneups in Manila before Gilas competes in China.

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