Kobe Paras says FIBA 3X3 stint came at perfect time

MANILA, Philippines — Kobe Paras thinks it’s about time he moved to the next level.

Talking to the press during the Chooks-Pilipinas’ send-off to the 3x3 FIBA World Cup in France on Wednesday night, the 19-year-old cager said he is excited to finally be part of the national basketball team family.

“I started representing the country when I was 15, and I think it's time na talaga na kaya kong i-represent at a higher level,” Paras said.

Paras is one of the amateur prospects personally invited by Chot Reyes to join the Gilas cadet training pool. Among the notable names in the bunch is Kiefer Ravena, the former Ateneo star and a fixture in past national youth teams.

“Ever since I was a kid, I was watching them, parang sila idol Calvin,” the 6-foot-6 Paras said.  “Nakikita ko talaga. Parang nung last na FIBA Asia na nag-host tayo, I was watching every game because of the atmosphere and the players—I looked up to everyone of those guys.”

And with his “redshirt” phase with the CalState Northridge (CSUN) just around the corner, Paras said the timing couldn’t be better.

“It's gonna work out great just because this year, I'm gonna sit out because of NCAA rules,” the son of PBA legend Benjie said. “I talked to coach Chot, talked to (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas), talked to my dad and the CSUN coaches. I told them talaga na parang, since I'm not playing, I'll make the most out of it and play for Gilas.”

“It's gonna work out. Even though I'm sitting out, I'm gonna work out and in two years I'll be playing for [na] Matadors talaga,” he added.

Paras, along with Ravena, will be joined by Jeron Teng and JR Quiniahan in the 3-on-3 competition in France. The Matador recruit and the former King Eagle will immediately report to the Gilas pool upon their return this June 22.