Jordan Clarkson is ‘very disappointed’ he won’t play for — FIBA News

“We can all agree, the 12 men selected to represent the Philippines in this 2015 FIBA Asia Championship have earned the right and any continued efforts on my part would not be fair to the team”. It was reported that the Lakers were requiring that Clarkson return by September 28, which means that the 23-year old would miss the elimination rounds of the tournament.

“As long as national team play does not interfere with team requirements and there are no injury issues, it is up to the players, whether or not to play”, the vice president for public relations said.

Los Angeles Lakers sophomore guard Jordan Clarkson will have to set his sights on training camp for the next step in his basketball career after he officially bowed out of playing for the Philippines during FIBA Asia.

Jordan Clarkson himself realizes that his inclusion to the Philippine Team at this late hour may possibly distract the focus of the team. According to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), Clarkson submitted the supporting documents FIBA asked for this summer and he is still waiting for FIBA’s formal approval.

“Though the doors on the 2015 FIBA Asia meet have been closed, the future of the national team program is encouraging with Clarkson’s desire to represent flag and country”. “His thoughts are that of a very loving dad”, Clarkson said in a statement.

Clarkson said he also spoke with Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak about Gilas.

“The Filipino fans are some of the most passionate in the world and many of them are Lakers supporters. I want to sincerely thank all of the fans who sent me letters of encouragement during these last three months about Gilas”, the statement read.

They are: Calvin Abueva, naturalized Filipino player Andray Blatche, Ranidel de Ocampo, Matthew Allen Ganuelas, Dondon Hontiveros, John Christopher Intal, Gabriel Danil Norwood, Jean Marck Pingris Jr., Terrence Romeo, Asi Taulava, Sonny Thoss and Jayson Castro.

The Lakers’ Jordan Clarkson had an impressive rookie season after being drafted in the second round of last year’s National Basketball Association Draft, and now he might get the opportunity to take his game to the global stage as well.