Does this mean the lone naturalized slot is now occupied?
Former NBA Sixth Man of the Year and Utah Jazz scoring specialist Jordan Clarkson has committed to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup.
A reliable source from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) confirmed this to News5.
With SBP now securing the services of the Fil-American guard, coach Chot Reyes has one less roster concern to worry about after weeks of uncertainty surrounding Clarkson's availability and timeline in joining the team.
Outside of JC, Reyes has had his hands full on roster talk as big man Kai Sotto has yet to join the squad's practices, too.
Clarkson first donned the Gilas Pilipinas jersey in an official game back in 2018, when he led the national team to the Asian Games.
The 6-foot-5 combo guard last played for Gilas in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in August 2022. Averaging 25 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists in two games, he led Gilas to an 84-46 win versus Saudi Arabia. The nationals, however, lost 85-81 to Lebanon.
Clarkson, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel resident import Justin Brownlee, and former Ateneo Blue Eagle Ange Kouame are among the choices to fill the naturalized player spot for the Philippines in the prestigious global tournament happening in August.