Clarkson might not be able to join PHL team in upcoming int’l tournaments, Guiao says

Asian Games head coach Yeng Guiao on Tuesday said Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jordan Clarkson might not be able to join the Philippine team in other upcoming international tournaments.

In an Interview with GMA News' Arnold Clavio on Unang Balita, Guiao said having Clarkson may not be possible for two reasons: the National Basketball Association (NBA) will begin its training next month and the eligibility requirements for the FIBA window.

"Sana makasama natin pero dalawa magiging problema natin. Magkaka-problema tayo sa kanyang schedule dahil next month, mag-uumpisa na 'yong NBA ... mag-uumpisa na 'yan, pupunta na 'yan sa kanilang training camps ... baka hindi na 'yan mahila," Guiao said.

"Pangalawa, 'yong eligibility. Iba kasi ang eligibility requirements dito sa Asian Games, at ang eligibility requirements doon sa FIBA window na tinatawag nila, 'yong tournament para mag-qualify tayo sa World Cup. Iba ang mga eligibility requirements, so dalawa ang problema kaya baka 'di natin makasama. Sayang, 'yon ang nanghihinayang ako," he added.

In the same interview, Guiao said he was satisfied with Clarkson's performance. He he also commended the NBA player for taking the risk to play with the Philippine team on the Asian Games despite knowing the possibility of injuries.

"Masaya ako sa kanya, mabait na bata, humble siya at nakipaglaban din nang husto," he said.  "Alam natin napakalaki ng suweldo niyan sa NBA, team ng Caveliers 12 million dollars a year 'yan  pero isinugal niya 'yon na talagang di baling ma-injure siya, 'di baling magkaproblema kung sakali pero he took the risk, para makapaglaro sa atin, and he did not hold back ... talagang binigay niya 'yong todo niya."

Clarkson secured a last-minute clearance from the NBA to join the tournament. He scored 24 points in the Philippines' losing effort against South Korea. — Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/RSJ, GMA News