Pinay Basketball Fans Thrilled by Dwight Ramos Despite Absence on Court
DWIGHT RAMOS – Filipina basketball fans were thrilled by the presence of “St. Dwight,” who attended the Gilas Pilipinas vs. Hong Kong match during the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers but was unable to play due to an injury.
Filipino basketball fans were eager to see Dwight “St. Dwight” Ramos during the Gilas Pilipinas game against Hong Kong on November 24, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. However, Ramos was unable to play due to a calf injury sustained in their previous game against New Zealand. Despite his absence, he was present on the sidelines, which excited fans who repeatedly chanted, “We want Dwight!” in hopes that he would join the game.
In a post-game interview, Gilas Head Coach Tim Cone explained why Ramos did not play. Cone expressed his admiration for the player, describing him as an extraordinary talent with an impressive basketball mind. “I love Dwight. I’m like all the girls: I love Dwight. I just love him for different reasons. I love him for his basketball mind and his talent, he’s got an incredible basketball mind.
The coach clarified that keeping Ramos off the court was a necessary decision to protect him from aggravating his injury. “I, more than anybody, would want him on the floor. I guarantee you that. I wasn’t holding him out for other reasons from the fact he pulled his calf muscle in the late stages of the New Zealand game,” Cone stated.
Although fans missed seeing Ramos in action, his popularity and influence were evident in the crowd’s enthusiastic support. Meanwhile, Gilas Pilipinas secured a decisive 93-54 victory over Hong Kong, marking their second win in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers. While Ramos’s presence on the court was missed, his health remains a priority as the team moves forward in the competition.