Filipinos may finally get the chance to see NBA player Jordan Clarkson represent the country.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Ricky Vargas told a few reporters on Tuesday that Clarkson's name was included in the 18-man list for the 2018 Asian Games submitted to them by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
"That's true. We're interested in inviting Jordan. But I think the one that's arranging that is Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas," Vargas said. "Clarkson is on the list."
The Filipino-American is currently playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA where he averaged 13.9 points, 2.7 assists, and 2.7 rebounds in the 2017-18 regular season.
The SBP, however, is still in discussions with the Cavaliers management to get Clarkson released for the Asian Games.
The next NBA season is not until October, while training camp for all teams open on September 22, giving Clarkson -- should he choose to represent the Philippines -- a window to play in the Asian Games.
Vargas said the SBP emailed the names for the Philippine men's basketball team to the POC on Tuesday morning, including Rain or Shine's core players. But the POC president refused to divulge any further information on the other players part of the list, which they will forward to the organizers of the Asian Games.
Initially, members of the TNT KaTropa, Andray Blatche and select Gilas Cadets composed of the team the country would send to Indonesia, but because of the FIBA ruling on some players, the Philippine Basketball Association and the Board of Governors are leaning toward sending the bulk of Rain or Shine instead.
Asked if the Philippine contingent already has a flag bearer for the opening ceremonies, Vargas indicated it would be a "good possibility" if Clarkson shoulders that responsibility.
"If Clarkson will join us, why not him?"
source: TV5