Drexler to sub for Jordan?

LOS ANGELES — Clyde (The Glide)Drexler said he’s more than willing to fly to Manila to attend the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) 30th season opening in October if he’s invited.

Drexler, 42, told The Star last Sunday he’s heard a lot about the Philippines from former University of Houston teammates who played as PBA imports.

"Michael Young, Rob Williams and Benny Anders all had great memories of the Philippines," he mentioned. "If you ask them , they’ll go back in a heartbeat. I’ve never been to the Philippines but I’d love to go and maybe, do some clinics. I know it’s a beautiful place and Michael and the guys told me the people are beautiful, too."

One of the 50 greatest players in National Basketball Association (NBA) history, Drexler played on the Houston Rockets team that blanked the Orlando Magic in the 1995 Finals.

PBA commissioner Noli Eala earlier invited Michael Jordan to grace the season opening but his Airness’ assistant Estee Portnoy said it’s unlikely another Asian trip could be scheduled this year.

Portnoy said Jordan is negotiating to buy an NBA team and if the deal pushes through, he will be busy in October preparing for the next season. However, Portnoy suggested that Eala communicate with Nike officials directly as Jordan’s recent Asian trip was organized by the Beaverton sports footwear and apparel company.

Drexler and another NBA legend Robert (The Chief) Parish were at the Staples Center for Game 1 of the Finals. NBA TV’s Julien Segui arranged for the Solar Sports TV team to interview Drexler and Parish for future Philippine airing.

Parish, 50, is also one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history. He picked the Los Angeles Lakers to whip the Detroit Pistons in six on the strength of Shaquille O’Neal’s dominant inside game.

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As usual, celebrities were at the Staples Center to cheer for the hometown Lakers last Sunday. Spotted in the crowd were Sylvester Stallone, Vin Diesel, Dustin Hoffman, Dick Van Dyke (who sang the National Anthem before the game with two others), Lisa Leslie and the inimitable Jack Nicholson.

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Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson may or may not be back on the Lakers bench next season. His five-year $30 Million contract expires at the end of the Finals.