Clarkson plans to join Gilas

A meeting with Filipino fans in Auburn Hills during a Lakers game against the Pistons
three months ago inspired Jordan Clarkson to consider joining Gilas.
From Clarkson's Instagram account

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The NBA's latest Filipino sensation is open to join Gilas.

And he really wants to be part of the team.

Los Angeles Laker Jordan Clarkson revealed plans of suiting up for the national team through the backdoor.

The 22-year-old Fil-American rookie, who failed to secure a Filipino passport when he was 16, told Joe Ramirez of the NBA team's official website that he is looking to apply for an exemption to the passport requirement for players of mixed descent so that he can play for Gilas.

“[Playing for Gilas] definitely would mean a lot. It’s just one of those things you want to do, like how I want to make my city proud and make that country proud as well,” Clarkson said.

He also mulled at plans of visiting the Philippines after the season. Clarkson has yet to step foot on the country.

The guard continued, "I’ve heard it’s a great place to go and experience everything — especially to see the basketball culture. I’ve heard they have outside courts that are nicer than some of the indoor courts and stuff like that. It’s going to be a blessing to go over there.”