MACAU — Arvin Tolentino is fully focused on leading the Seoul SK Knights in the East Asia Super League playoffs, but the former NorthPort Batang Pier star has not closed the door on representing Gilas Pilipinas again.
“If I’m able, why not?” Tolentino said. “It’s an honor and a dream of mine to play for the national team.”
Tolentino has already donned the Gilas jersey twice, helping the Philippines claim gold at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou and the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia. Known as a lucky charm for teams featuring PBA stars and Filipino standouts abroad, he remains a key figure in the EASL.
Despite his national team ambitions, Tolentino said his priority remains the SK Knights, who are gearing up for a quarterfinal clash against the Taoyuan Pilots. “Whoever’s playing, for sure, will give their hundred percent even if we’re bashed at times. They have my full support,” he added.
Tolentino is currently the only Filipino left in EASL competition, while back home, the Meralco Bolts continue their Commissioner’s Cup campaign, facing Converge at Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Terrafirma Dyip take on Blackwater in an earlier matchup at 5:15 p.m., with the Bolts tipping off at 7:30 p.m.