Jordan Clarkson to backstop Asiad campaign?

MANILA, Philippines — Fil-Am guard Jordan Clarkson may end up spearheading the Gilas Pilipinas team competing in the Asian Games next month in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Ricky Vargas yesterday said the Cleveland Cavaliers mainstay in the NBA was included in the new 18-player men’s basketball roster submitted by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Sonny Barrios to the Asiad organizers last Monday.

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

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

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

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

The POC chief, however, said there’s no assurance yet on whether or not Clarkson could play but the SBP is currently talking with the Cavaliers camp regarding the matter.

The Phl team will be represented by Rain or Shine with the PBA expected to formalize the announcement after the league board meeting tomorrow.