After experiencing Manila for three days, 2011 NBA Sixth Man of the Year and Mighty Sports Philippines’ Lamar Odom confessed that he would gladly stay and play in the Philippines.
“Well I love it. This is my first time,” shared the 39-year-old Odom during a press conference held at Solaire Hotel and Resort in Pasay City. “Filipinos have been very welcoming.
“I can see myself playing basketball here.”
Odom’s road to the Philippines has been a long one.
The two-time NBA champion last played professionally back in 2014 for Spanish club team Saski Baskonia. His NBA career lasted for 14 years.
However, he endured turbulent times afterwards, suffering a stroke due to drug overdose back in 2015.
“I was at death’s doorstep, so just the opportunity to play basketball is a win-win for me.”
Since then, he has been making a comeback. And through his manager, he was invited to be Mighty Sports Philippines’ guest player for the 2019 Dubai International Basketball Tournament.
“I’m happy to be in Manila,” expressed Odom, who will join CBA veteran Randolph Morris and Ginebra resident import Justin Brownlee in the Philippine-based club team.
“It means a lot to me to restart my basketball career.”
After the week-long tourney, however, Odom does not know where he’ll go. But local manager Sheryl Reyes disclosed that the decorated cager has been getting plenty of interest over here.
“He’s preparing for the Big 3 (US),” disclosed Reyes.
“We are also talking to Alab and some PBA clubs.”
