Will JC for 2023 happen?

“There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other.”

                                                                                         – Douglas H. Everett

                DREAMS. The NBA’s leading candidate for 6th man of the year, who is currently averaging 17.3 points 4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game, also had a dream in mind. According to an article in New York Times, Clarkson disclosed his desire to suit-up for Gilas this coming FIBA World Cup 2023 which is co-hosted by the Philippines. It is music to the ears of the Filipinos to hear this kind of news, however, before Jordan Clarkson can play for Gilas, the SBP and Jordan Clarkson will hurdle a lot of obstacles before this would happen.

                If his plan would be fulfilled, this coming FIBA World Cup 2023 would be his 2nd tour of duty for Gilas. Clarksons return would be a huge boost for Gilas. His presence alone not just only brings unwavering confidence but also experience.

                Now the dilemma.

                What is his status for this coming FIBA World Cup? For some years already, Jordan Clarksons status is still hanging on the air. With no clear information coming from SBP and FIBA, we are all in the conclusion that Jordan Clarkson would play as our naturalized player. However, past reports have revealed that SBP Program Director, Tab Baldwin is bold with his intentions that it will be Angelo Kouame that would fill-in the spot as naturalized player. Will his bold stand change if Jordan Clarksons name comes into the picture?

                Will he be allowed to play by the Utah Jazz? Assuming the SBP would manage to find a way to accomplish the requirements set-forth by FIBA to make Jordan Clarkson play for Gilas this coming FIBA World Cup, still, without the consent of the Utah Jazz, Jordan Clarkson cannot still suit-up for the Philippines. The good thing is that the Jazz is comprised of a handful of international players. Meaning, if the Jazz would allow Gobert, Ingles and their other international players to suit up, then, Clarksons chances on suiting up for Gilas again is not a long shot.

                It is still fresh in our memories how Jordan Clarkson showcased his talents in the Asian Games. How he dominated his counterparts in Asian-level, Clarksons skills is unguardable. With the emergence of Kai Sotto, Carl Tamayo, Justin Baltazar and a healthy AJ Edu accompanied by a steady and experienced presence in Junemar Fajardo, we will have a lot of big men that would complement Jordan Clarksons skills.

                But, then again, will we still live in a dream of having Jordan Clarkson suiting up for Gilas in the World Stage; will we face the reality of not having him; or will Jordan Clarkson, the NBA, FIBA and SBP make this dream of ours a reality.

                Only time will tell.

Photo from Basketball Republic Page and Alex Goodlett/Getty Images