There was a mad rush by the Philippine Olympic Committee on Friday over what Barong Tagalog Jordan Clarkson would wear for the Opening Ceremonies of the 2018 Asian Games.
“Those were only oversize ones left so we shipped them out as fast as we can,” said national team chef de mission Richard Gomez.
“I hope one of those fits Jordan.”
The Tampa, Florida-born cager is a curious choice to be the Philippines’ flag-bearer.
During the last three Asiads, Mikee Cojuangco, Paeng Nepomuceno, and Geylord Coveta have been tasked for this responsibility – and all of them are home-grown Filipinos.
But in 2018, the POC wants to send a message to every Filipino out there.
“Whether you are Filipino born overseas or locally, we are just one big sports family,” Gomez shared.
Saturday evening at the sprawling Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Clarkson will take centerstage for Team Pilipinas. And it’s only fitting, as the four-year NBA pro has been an inspiration to the Filipino youth.
“Jordan is a good role model who has reached the pinnacle of being a Filipino basketball athlete by playing in the NBA. He will inspire our other athletes here to do well.”
