Jordan Clarkson staying ready for Gilas Pilipinas stint

Gilas Pilipinas guard Jordan Clarkson celebrates during the match against Saudi Arabia in the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena. Photo by Fiba

MANILA, Philippines – Staying focused on the Utah Jazz’s 2022-23 NBA season, Jordan Clarkson admitted he has not been in touch with Gilas Pilipinas lately, but he wants to play for his country when it hosts the 2023 Fiba World Cup in August.

“I haven’t really talked much with anyone, but I know that in the future what plans are coming up this summer,” said Clarkson during the availability of virtual media with the Philippine media.

The Filipino-American guard, who is committed to playing for Gilas in the World Cup, added that he has not stopped preparing for the national team, despite leading the Jazz in the middle of the NBA season.

“I’m ready with my family, my team. I’m very excited,” he said.

The NBA star, who is playing twice in the August Asian Qualifying window, assured that he will arrive in the country in time for the national team’s preparations for the historic hosting of the much-anticipated Fiba event.

“Right now, there’s no communication happening. But we know it’s on the horizon. We’re starting to prepare all the logistics to get in and get ready to compete,” Clarkson said.

The Utah Jazz guard has committed to join Gilas Pilipinas six weeks before the World Cup.

Clarkson averaged 25.0 points, 6.5 assists, and 5.5 rebounds in the first two games with Gilas in the fourth window, losing to Lebanon, 85-81, in Beirut before rebounding at home with an 84-46 win against Saudi Arabia.

Now, the former Sixth Man of the Year winner is focused on his ninth NBA season, embracing a leadership role for the revamped Jazz, who are currently No.9 in the Western Conference with a 21-23 record.

The 30-year-old guard has thrived as a starter for Utah, averaging 20.7 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds in 32 minutes of playing time after playing 43 games.

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