Clarkson inspires his teammates in rousing Asiad start

JAKARTA – Jordan Clarkson’s mere appearance at the GBK Basketball Hall, though a bit late, helped Team Philippines in its triumphant start in the 18th Asian Games here.

“We appreciated it. We know he’s tired off the plane, but he made an effort to come. That inspired the team a lot more,” said coach Yeng Guiao of Clarkson’s impact on his teammates, who marched to a 96-59 victory over Kazakhstan Thursday to start their Asiad bid on a high note.

“It’s a good gesture from Jordan Clarkson,” added Guiao on Clarkson rushing straight from the airport to be able to catch the Philippine-Kazakhstan game.

Obviously inspired by the arrival of the Fil-Am NBA player late in the third, the Nationals broke away from a 58-43 count, making a good fourth-quarter show cheered on by Clarkson.

“We have a few days to practice with him, but we’re very excited to play with him,” said Guiao, who will have a full 12-man lineup led by the Cleveland Cavaliers guard Tuesday against China.