Lopez on ex-Nets teammate Blatche playing for Gilas: ‘It’s a natural partnership’

MANILA, Philippines – In the two seasons Brook Lopez spent with Andray Blatche, he knew that Blatche becoming a naturalized player for the Philippines was a “natural partnership.”

The 29-year-old was all praise for Blatche, 30, who has been reinforcing Gilas Pilipinas since 2014.

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“Oh man. I can’t say enough because I know how much he loves the game and I know how much the Filipino people love the game as well. It’s a natural partnership,” he said during his short Manila visit on Monday, May 29, at the Hard Rock Cafe, where he held a press conference to launch a multi-year partnership with insurance company AXA Philippines.

“It was great to see him be a part of the Gilas team. It’s a great thing and I love seeing him play for this country.”

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Blatche recently led the Philippine national men’s basketball team to a gold medal in the SEABA Men’s Championship a couple of weeks ago. As a result, the Philippines booked slots in the FIBA Asia Cup and Asian Qualifiers later in the year.

Lopez also lauded Blatche’s personality as a teammate and a basketball player.

“Playing on the same team with him, he’s such an amazing talent,” the Nets’ all-time leading scorer said.

“He made things easier for me when we’re on the floor together and he’s such a fun locker room guy, he brings a lot of energy. We call him Dray Live. He’s a great guy and a great person to be around.” – Rappler.com