Globalport import Omar Krayem. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Filipino basketball fans could see a lot more of Globalport’s Asian import Omar Krayem in the months to come even though the twice-to-beat Batang Pier were sent to an early exit by Star on Sunday night in the 2015 PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals.
The Palestinian guard said there’s a “very high” possibility that he will suit up for his country’s National team when it competes in the 2015 Fiba Asia Championship in China this September.
“It’s a very high possibility,” Krayem told reporters after tallying nine points, five rebounds and four assists in the loss.
“But I need to go home and get some downtime. I’ve been playing since August 1st, Sweden, Mexico and Philippines. So I’m about to get some rest, talk to the National team and see what the plan is and hopefully I make it there in September.”
The Philippines and Palestine are in the same group and will play in the first round. Krayem said he’s already looking forward to the matchup.
“I’m excited to compete. Philippines basketball is tough, physical and got some great players so I’m excited to compete against them and show my real stuff,” said the 28-year-old Krayem.
The 6-foot-2 Krayem averaged 14.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists while playing in all 11 elimination round games for the Batang Pier but Krayem feels that he still wasn’t able to show his full capabilities with the kind of role he had to play for Globalport.
“Here at Globalport I had to play a role, a role that I’m not really used to and I’ve adjusted. Done the best that I can but on the Palestine National team is different. I’m the main point guard and I’m going to be able to show my stuff more,” he said.
“So I’m just looking forward competing against everybody we’re going to play against especially the Philippines since I played here and it’s a pleasure and an honor.”
Krayem shared point guard spot with rookie standout Stanley Pringle and at times was on the floor with a third guard in Terrence Romeo. But regardless of the situation he was in, he found ways to shine and be a key part of Globalport and Gilas Pilipinas head coach and Talk ‘N Text consultant Tab Baldwin took notice.
“He’s a good player. He’s tough and really quick. And this [PBA stint] will help him a lot.”
Krayem also hopes he will get to face off with Romeo, whom he wishes good luck to make the National squad.
“Hope he gets in the National team and I look forward to seeing him grow as a player and a person.” CFC