Clarkson desire to join Gilas has dad’s blessing

MANILA, Philippines - Wearing Gilas jersey No. 17, LA Laker guard Jordan Clarkson was visibly active, full of energy in his second workout with the Philippine national training pool at the Meralco Gym Thursday night.

“He’s in high spirits. And why not? He’s sorted things out with his dad,” said a Gilas Pilipinas official, referring to Jordan’s phone conversation with his dad Mike Thursday afternoon.

With Clarkson’s approval, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is still pursuing procedures that could lead to Clarkson suiting up with Gilas Pilipinas in the future or even in the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship set Sept. 23-Oct. 3 in Changsha, China.

In his statement, Jordan made it known he immediately cleared things with his father after the latter cast doubts on his possible appearance for Team Phl in the coming Asian meet.

Philstar.com carried excerpts of Mike Clarkson’s email at 11:30 a.m. Thursday. Jordan issued his statement at 1:30 p.m. or two hours later.

 “My father, Mike, has always looked out for my welfare and is only genuinely concerned for my career, my future and my well-being – his thoughts are that of a very loving dad,” said Jordan.

 “I just called him and we agreed we will talk about my playing for Gilas when I get back. Nothing is cast in stone. But I want to assure my Filipino brothers and sisters that, if given the chance and everything can be worked out, I sincerely wish to play for Gilas and contribute to the total team effort for flag and country,” he added.

Having attended two practice sessions of Gilas Pilipinas, Clarkson is spending some more time with Team Phl, showing up in Taipei to observe some games in the Jones Cup.

Gilas Pilipinas left for Taipei yesterday. Clarkson will follow tomorrow as he’s still to attend to commitments in Manila.

He assured he sincerely wants to play for Gilas Pilipinas.

“This is the reason why I am observing and familiarizing myself with the team while here and will even follow them in Taipei for the Jones Cup so I can see them compete close up and benefit from the learnings from said experience,” he pointed out.

He first showed up in Gilas practice Wednesday evening, wearing Gilas jersey No. 6 – the same number he carries in his Laker uniform.