Jordan Clarkson was a man on a mission during his home debut for Gilas Pilipinas Men against Saudi Arabia in the second round of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers, Monday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The 2021 NBA Sixth Man of the Year produced 23 points, five rebounds, and six assists in 28:06 minutes of action as coach Chot Reyes’ men sealed an 84-46 victory in front of 19,829 spectators, which included President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“For us a team, we’re getting it together these last couple of weeks. Me coming into practice maybe five times, just trying to figure it out quickly so we can get ready for this World Cup next year and that’s what it’s about,” said the 6-foot-4 Utah Jazz guard.
“Just the process of us building as a team and doing this thing the way we want it to look like.”
Clarkson clearly relished playing in front of the home crowd throughout the evening.
His past matches wearing the Philippines uniform were held in Indonesia during the 2018 Asian Games and in Beirut when he and his teammates took on Wael Arakji’s Lebanon a few days ago.
The 2015 NBA All-Rookie Team awardee combined with big man Kai Sotto to produce several highlight plays as the former was fuelled by the atmosphere he was playing in.
“Feels great. I always hear ‘em even when I’m on the other side of the world. I hear ‘em through the Internet or social media, every time I step out of my house,” said Clarkson.
“I know Filipinos got my back and I got theirs as well.”
Despite the big win, there will be more challenges down the road for Gilas Pilipinas as it prepares for the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup on home soil.
Clarkson himself showed that he was infallible as he committed four turnovers during the game while trying to entertain the crowd.
Amidst a troublesome few months for the national team program, the Florida native hopes his fellow Filipinos will back the team more with one year left before the big dance.
“We appreciate everybody. We’re getting something started here. Support us, support our team, support our coaching staff — everybody,” said Clarkson.
“We’re building something special so let’s get it.”
