Basketball runs deep in the veins of the Khobuntin family, and National University Nazareth School’s 6-foot-2 center, Clark Khobuntin, is proving that the legacy is alive and well.
The son of TNT forward and NU alum Glenn Khobuntin, a one-time UAAP champion, the rising Bullpup is carving his own path in the UAAP Season 88 Junior High School Basketball Tournament — determined to show that his career will extend beyond his father’s shadow, one basket, one breakout performance at a time.
“Gusto ko rin yung makakamit tulad ng nagawa niya sa NU, pero ayaw ko rin na sisikat ako dahil lang sa pangalan ng tatay ko,” Clark told Tiebreaker Times in an exclusive interview Wednesday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
“Gusto ko rin na gumawa ng sarili ko pangalan na iba pa sa tatay ko kasi siyempre, para rin sa further growth ng career ko.”
Driven to build his own identity beyond his father’s legacy, Clark is gradually becoming a pivotal piece in the Bullpups’ perfect 5-0 start to Season 88.
And it’s a welcome sight for the inaugural tournament champions after being dethroned by eventual titlists UE Junior Warriors in Season 87.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
After averaging just 6.0 points, 7.75 rebounds, and 0.75 assists in the first four games, the 15-year-old center showcased his determination with a dominant triple-double.
He picked up 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists to lift NUNS past Adamson University, 93-82, keeping the team unbeaten through five games.
Beyond his personal efforts to improve, Clark credits his breakout performance — and his continued resurgence for the Leo Pujante-mentored squad — to the guidance of his father, Glenn.
“Palagi lang niya ako pinapaalahanan na all out lang lagi at mag-defense. Sabi niya yung mga points, player of the game, triple double, bonus na lang yun ‘eh. Ang importante para sa amin ay manalo,” the 6-foot-3, Daraga, Albay native said.
Despite Glenn’s hectic schedule as the Tropang 5G prepare for their redemption campaign in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup, Clark remains grateful for the moments his father still carves out to guide and mentor him.
“Grabe rin impact niya sa akin dahil sa walang-sawa na pag-support niya sa akin. Binibigyan niya rin ako ng advice and pag umuuwi ako sa bahay, palagi siya may sinasabi sa akin to improve my game,” he concluded.
