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Jordan Clarkson will play for Gilas in the main event. – FIBA
The last six years have seen Justin Brownlee carry the hopes and aspirations of the Philippine Basketball Association.
From next month, he will bring the whole country to the events leading up to the International Basketball Federation (Fiba) World Cup where he will hand over the baton to Jordan Clarkson.
Barring any complications, the Barangay Ginebra import will wear the Gilas Pilipinas tri-color in the sixth and final window of the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers this February, where a vengeful Jordan and Lebanon await.
“This is the best time for us to test him,” national coach Chot Reyes told the Inquirer when asked about the presentation of the 6-foot-6 player, who was officially granted Philippine citizenship last Thursday by Republic Act 11937.
Brownlee has long been considered Gilas’ naturalized player in two home games at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, before, schedule permitting, he leads the Philippines in the Asian Games in Cambodia in May with do-it-all progressing into a logical sub while Clarkson fulfills his duties for Utah Jazz in the NBA.
‘enjoy this’
Clarkson, meanwhile, reiterated that he has Gilas at the back of his mind and that he will be there and ready when the country hosts the World Cup in August.
“I’m ready with my family, my team. I’m very excited,” Clarkson said during a virtual media availability with the Philippine media on Friday.
The Jazz star, who played twice in August’s Asian Qualifying window, assured he will arrive in the country in time for the national team’s preparations for the highly 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.
“I haven’t talked to anyone much yet, but I know there are plans in the future for what’s coming this summer.”
In Cambodia, the Philippines will be tasked with reclaiming the gold medal they have held for 33 years and Brownlee could lead the team that Reyes will handle.
“It’s a little overwhelming, but I’m ready for the moment,” Brownlee said. “I just accept all the blessings.”
—With a report from Lance Agcaoili
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