CHICAGO – Busy with off-season workouts, modeling shoots and familial obligations, Jordan Clarkson politely declined to comment on his upcoming stint with Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

 

However, the Utah Jazz star will “do interviews in the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, Team Clarkson issued a statement after the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) secured JC’s commitment to play for our national team.

Here it is:

“We’re humbled by Jordan embracing the opportunity to represent his Filipino roots once again and compete in the 2023 FIBA World Cup alongside his fellow countrymen. There’s one thing for certain and two things for sure:

“1) Jordan’s not Filipino for convenience but Filipino by blood and 2) Never question his commitment to honor his word.

“He recognizes how his presence on the world stage will elevate Filipino pride while using his God-given athletic talents, humility and style to play the game he loves on Philippine soil. While participating in this magnificent event, he’ll also pay homage to his late Lola Marcelina Tullao’s legacy.

“We know, if she was physically with us, she’d be beaming with pride watching her grandson perform in the Philippines under the bright lights of the World Cup.

“Thank you to SBP, Al Panlilio, Butch Antonio, and coach Chot Reyes for making this happen.

“To the Filipino Nation: “Jordan’s coming home!.”

jordan clarkson

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Given the quality of opposition Gilas will face in the World Cup, it was imperative to get the services of a legitimate, well-established NBA star who can wreak havoc on the offensive end.

So how much does an asset such as Clarkson cost?

Surprisingly, Jordan’s camp did not ask for a steep amount, implicitly validating the notion that Clarkson wasn’t in this for the money. Recently signed by the Jazz to a three-year deal worth $55 million, he simply wanted to rep the Philippine flag.

Besides Jordan’s modest fees, the SBP secured an NBA-required insurance binder worth an estimated $13 million. Depending on the insurance carrier, Lloyd’s of London I’ve been told, the premium on that kind of liability is around at least $520,000.

But it’s well worth every penny given what Jordan brings to the table.

So when will Jordan join Gilas?

“He will leave LA for China on August 6,” his camp told me.

I’ve also confirmed that Jordan will play in the pocket tournament there but will do so with limited minutes but will go all-out in the World Cup.

Sounds like a plan. A very good plan.