Lakers G Clarkson joins Gilas in spirit as gold medal match looms

MANILA, Philippines -- Los Angeles Lakers' Fil-Am sophomore Jordan Clarkson couldn't be more excited for Gilas Pilipinas after they advanced to the finals of the 2015 FIBA Asia Men's Championship.

Clarkson, who was originally eyed to join the national team, was disappointed that he did not get the green light in time to suit up for the country. He is currently in Hawaii with the Lakers for the pre-season training camp but his heart is still with Gilas, the team that he joined for a week during their preparation.

Before Gilas go to war against host China in the gold medal match, Clarkson took a time out from the training camp and sent encouraging words via Twitter for the team while lauding all their efforts especially what coach Tab Baldwin has done with the much maligned national team.

#PusoPride #message @lettrs #lettrs #Gilas #onewinfromrio http://t.co/GkAm00YBhE pic.twitter.com/R9aTgSRGtc

— Jordan Clarkson (@JClark5on) October 3, 2015

Clarkson believes Gilas can topple China and go to Rio Olympics next year. And he's hoping that when that time comes, he will be with them to battle the world's best.