Jordan Clarkson eyed for Gilas in Asiad

MANILA, Philippines – Fil-Am guard Jordan Clarkson may end up spearheading a Gilas Pilipinas team seeing action in the Asian Games this August in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Ricky Vargas on Tuesday said Clarkson, who currently plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers, was part of the retooled 18-player men’s basketball roster submitted by Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas executive director Sonny Barrios to Asiad organizers Monday.

“Clarkson is part of the list submitted by Sonny Barrios. We hope he could play,” said Vargas.

Clarkson, who owns a Philippine passport, has practiced with the national team a few years ago but has never played a single game.

There is a chance he would in Jakarta.

If Clarkson is a go, Vargas said there is a strong possibility Clarkson may also end up as the country’s Asiad flag-bearer.

“If he (Clarkson) agrees, why not?” said Vargas.

Vargas, however, said there was no finality yet on whether or not Clarkson will play but they are currently talking to the Cavaliers for a release.

The team is composed of mostly players from Rain or Shine.

Vargas has yet to say who will coach the team, although NLEX coach Yeng Guiao’s name was initially floated.