Fil-Am ace skips NBA Draft

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino-American standout and Gilas Pilipinas prospect Remy Martin has pulled out from this year’s NBA Draft so he could play his final year in Arizona State.

The Sun Devils announced Martin’s decision yesterday, a development that bolstered the team’s chances in the PAC-12 Conference and the US NCAA.

The six-foot floor general declared for this year’s NBA Draft last March after a banner year as Arizona’s leading scorer with 19. 1 points and 4.1 assists in the collegiate tourney that was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Amid his exploits abroad, Martin, whose mother Mary Anne Macaspac is Filipina, has been vocal in his desire to play for the Philippines over the years.

The 22-year-old is among Gilas’ 23 prospects for the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has already reached out to him since last year. He was even considered to play in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

For now, the former PAC-12 Sixth Man of the Year is tasked to spearhead the Sun Devils.

“I’m blessed to have the opportunity to coach Remy Martin for one more season,” said coach Bobby Hurley.