Bennie Boatwright, a candidate for Philippine naturalization, underwent foot surgery recently, which could ground the former San Miguel Beer import for a few months.

A reliable source who requested anonymity,told the Manila Times that Boatwright decided to undergo the minor procedure which "he has been holding off for sometime."

"He (Boatwright) decided to push through, now that he has a break in between seasons," said the source.

The 6-foot-10 Boatwright is coming off a recent stint with the Shangxi Loongs in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) just a few months after leading the Beermen to the PBA Commissioner's Cup crown in 2023.

The former USC Trojan averaged 15.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists for the Loongs, while shooting 34.1 percent from downtown.

The 28-year-old Boatwright is still in the initial stages of the naturalization process.

Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone said in a previous interview that the sweet-shooting American forward can be an immediate impact player for the Philippine team.

Boatwright sizzled during his first tour of duty in the PBA as he averaged 30.3 points, 12 rebounds and 3.5 assists, while making 35.1 percent from three-point zone during his stint with San Miguel.

Barring any hitches, Boatwright will add to the Philippines' growing list of naturalized player led by Jordan Clarkson, Justin Brownlee and Ange Kouame.