Kiefer Ravena praises Jordan Clarkson: 'One of the most professional guys I've ever seen'

Kiefer Ravena has nothing but good words for Gilas Pilipinas teammate Jordan Clarkson after playing with the Utah Jazz star in the recent FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

In an interview on podcast "Surprise Guest with Pia Arcangel," Ravena described Clarkson as a great talent who make the country proud for representing Filipinos in the NBA.

"[He is] one of the most professional guys that I've ever seen in my life. [He] comes into practice early, never misses a viewing session or film session, always on time and just does his best when he plays," Ravena said.

"So, that's, that's the level that you want to be at,  and that takes a lot of hard work," he added.

Ravena also praised Kai Sotto who continues to pursue his dream of making it to the NBA.

"It's not just JC, but also Kai, he was able to make time for the national team, Hopefully he makes it as the first full-born Filipino in the NBA," he said.

"But full or half, JC or Kai, you know, we're very proud of them. They're both Filipinos in my books. So wherever, they say they're carrying the flag wherever they play. So just being around those guys, I was able to learn a lot and apply it to my career as well."

Ravena, Clarkson, and Sotto are expected to play in international leagues later this year.

Ravena will play with the Shiga Lakes in Japan which will open on September 29, while Sotto will be with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia's National Basketball League which will start its season on October 1.

Clarkson, according to reports, is potentially on the trading block ahead of the NBA season which will start in October.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/MGP, GMA News