Jordan Clarkson will play for Gilas in the main event. — FIBA
The past six years have seen Justin Brownlee carry with him the franchise hopes and aspirations of the Philippine Basketball Association.
Starting next month, he will carry an entire nation’s body in the events leading up to the International Basketball Federation (Fiba) World Championships, where he will hand over the baton to Jordan Clarkson.
Without any complications, Barangay Ginebra imports will wear the Gilas Pilipinas tricolor in the sixth and final window of this February’s Fiba World Cup Asia Qualifiers, where Jordan avens and Lebanon is in the running. wait.
“It was the best time for us to test him,” national coach Chot Reyes told the Inquirer when asked about the use of the 6-foot-6 standout player, who has been officially granted citizenship. Philippines last Thursday under Republic Act 11937.
Brownlee has long been set to become Gilas’ naturalized player in two home games at the pitiful Philippine Arena in Bulacan, before which, if schedule permits, he will lead the Philippines at the Games. Southeast Asia sports in Cambodia in May with a do-it- all-forward mission as logical side while Clarkson completes his duties for the Utah Jazz in the NBA.
‘Glad about it’
Clarkson, meanwhile, reiterated that he has Gilas in mind and that he will be there and ready when the country co-hosts the World Cup in August.
“I am preparing for that with my family, my team. I’m excited for that,” Clarkson said in an online interview with Philippine media on Friday.
The Jazz star, who played twice in the August round of the Asian Qualifiers, made sure he arrived in the country in time for the national team to prepare for Fiba’s most anticipated event.
“As of right now, there is not much communication going on. But we know it’s on the horizon. Clarkson said.
“I haven’t really talked to anyone much but I know that’s the future plan of what’s coming this summer.”
In Cambodia, the Filipinos will be tasked with reclaiming the gold medal they’ve held for 33 long years and Brownlee could lead the team Reyes will be in charge of.
“It was a bit overwhelming, but I think I was prepared for the moments to come,” Brownlee said. “I just welcome all the blessings.”
—With a report from Lance Agcaoili
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