Jordan Clarkson set to join Gilas Pilipinas in 4th window of FIBAWC Asian Qualifiers
After a couple of disappointing finishes, Gilas Pilipinas is set to get a much-needed boost with the addition of a certified NBA player.
Gilas head coach and program director Chot Reyes on Wednesday bared that Jordan Clarkson will join the national team for the 4th window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers which is set this coming August.
“We also have word that Jordan Clarkson is also coming, hoping to join the team as well on the 25th and 29th,” said Reyes during an interview with PlayItRight TV. “I think the one thing Jordan will bring to the team is gravity. He will attract a lot of gravity.”
“He is going to be able to, just with him being there, the other team will have to worry about stopping him and by virtue of that alone, it’s going to give open looks, open spaces, and opportunities for the players to attack and score. That’s the one thing,” he added.
Carrying a 2-2 record after the first three windows, Gilas will clash with Lebanon in Beirut on the 25th before taking on Saudi Arabia in home soil on the 29th.
Aside from Clarkson, Reyes is also banking on Kai Sotto and several PBA players to reinforce the squad.
“Hopefully, Kai Sotto can make it this time,” quipped Reyes.
“By then, we will have some PBA players available because the league will be in the semifinals already. Very thankful to the PBA for lending us their players,” he added.
“We will only start practicing on August 15 when everyone is available. At least we will see some more players we can take a look at for 2023. That’s part of the plan, the August 25 window.”