AWESOME. Amazing.
Those were the words said by Jordan Clarkson, the Filipino-American point guard of the Los Angeles Lakers, and his mentor Tim Fuller, in describing their feelings meeting international boxing idol Manny Pacquiao Wednesday night.
The duo paid Pacquiao a courtesy call at the latter’s Forbes Park residence in Makati City and both were starstruck seeing the eight-division champion in person.
“It was awesome. It’s an honor meeting, shaking hands and talking with him, a respected and adored sports personality all over the world,” said the 23-year-old Clarkson.
“Amazing,” said Fuller. “He’s (Pacquiao) an internationally acclaimed person, not only in sports and this occasion, certainly, is a rare privilege for me.”
Clarkson told Pacquiao of his desire to play for the Philippine team, promising to cooperate whole-heartedly with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas in its efforts to complete his papers.
The Lakers’ guard, in a way, reiterated his willingness to play for Gilas Pilipinas should he become eligible, even after his father Mike Clarkson announced that the time might not be right for his son to possibly join the PH team.
The elder Clarkson stated that since his son is entering the final year of his contract with the Lakers in this upcoming NBA season and a lot more is expected out of the sophomore guard, it might not be the best time to join the Philippine team this year.
‘’My father, Mike, has always looked out for my welfare and is only genuinely concerned for my career, my future and my wellbeinghis thoughts are that of a very loving dad,’’ said Clarkson. ‘’I just called him and we agreed we will talk about my playing for Gilas when I get back. Nothing is cast in stone. But I want to assure my Filipino brothers and sisters that, if given the chance and everything can be worked out, I sincerely wish to play for Gilas and contribute to the total team effort for flag and country.’’
Clarkson then concluded his statement that he is thrilled to be back in the country to take part in the activities of Smart Gilas, whichever way he can at this point.
‘’I am observing and familiarizing myself with the team while I’m here so I can see them compete close up and benefit from the learnings from this experience. I will even follow them in Taipei for the Jones Cup. Laban Pilipinas! Puso!’’
With Clarkson’s gesture, Pacquiao thanked him, saying the country really needs him to regain the glory the Philippines once enjoyed in Asian basketball.
Clarkson and Fuller were accompanied to Pacquiao’s posh residence by SBP’s Patricia Hizon, together with Ex Sander and Sean Nichols, an Australian marketing man. With Jeric Lopez