University of the Philippines forward Carl Tamayo has begged off from suiting up for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup qualifier fifth window citing an injury.
The sophomore is currently undergoing rehab after hurting his right ankle in the ongoing University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 men’s basketball tournament.
Tamayo, who sustained the injury in the first round of eliminations against University of the East last 19 October, felt that he won’t be much help for the national squad in his current condition.
“I think I’m not 100 percent (healthy). I won’t be able to help Gilas if I’m not 100 percent. Right now I’m not confident in my condition,” Tamayo said following the defending champions Fighting Maroons’ 83-69 win over the Red Warriors on Saturday that put UP a win away from a return trip to the Final Four.
“One of the reasons why I and coach (Goldwin Monteverde) decided to skip is because of my condition,” Tamayo added.
The Philippines, sporting a 3-3 card, will face Jordan on 10 November, before capping its 2022 season in a rematch with Saudi Arabia on the 13th.
Although hobbled with an injury Tamayo, who was named Rookie of the Year in Season 84, has been contributing for UP, which holds the top spot in the standings with a 9-1 win-loss record.
“My injury is not that serious. But I feel that I need to rest and undergo rehab. I think Gilas will understand,” he said.
Tamayo is averaging 8.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 0.7 assists in 17.7 minutes of play through three games in the Asian qualifiers.
His absence added another blow to Gilas which is already missing veteran center June Mar Fajardo.
Tamayo, however, vowed to join Gilas for the sixth window February next year when the country hosts host Lebanon and Jordan, as well as for the 2023 FIBA World Cup main draw.
“I’m always open to suit up for the Philippines,” he said. “It’s just that I don’t think I can be of help right now. I think Gilas will understand my situation.”
