Love is definitely in the air.
It’s not easy being away from family.
While it can get lonely for many Filipinos abroad, such is not the case for Bobby Ray Parks Jr.
In fact, this has become a motivation for the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins star to do better in the Japan B.League.
As the B.League All-Star Game Weekend unfolds in Okinawa, it won’t be just Dwight Ramos who will have his special someone attend the festivities.
Parks will also be more motivated than ever as his partner, YouTube personality Zeinab Harake, is present to support him in the games.
“It gives me more of a reason to push harder here dahil OFW nga ako, pero nandito naman si Bel ngayon eh,” said Parks.
“Sobrang blessing na rin to have a partner na very supportive,” he added.
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This is Park’s fourth season with the Dolphins, who are eighth in the standings with a 16-12 record.
The former NU Bulldogs star has been having quite a down year after dealing with injuries, averaging only 6.8 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists per game.
Despite this, Parks said he’s feeling even better than last year.
“I feel like each day I'm getting better,” said Parks. “Regardless of the numbers, regardless of the minutes, regardless of how the exterior views it, I know for myself that I'm getting better mentally and physically on and off the court.”
But how about emotionally?
“Puwede na. Pinapakilig mo ako eh. But seriously, it's good na I have a family to call my own na alam kong mauuwian ko and that supports me 110%—pero ang hirap ng LDR [long distance relationship],” said Parks.
A healthier and more inspired Parks for Nagoya would be a great sight to see for fans as he tries to his team to the playoffs.
(With reports from Randolph Leongson, Cignal TV)