Ray Parks and head coach Tab Baldwin talk during the Gilas Pilipinas practice Wednesday. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
It’s the mother of homecomings for Bobby Ray Parks Jr.
After a fairly successful stint in the NBA D-League with the Texas Legends, the former National University Bulldog came home to a spot in the Gilas Pilipinas pool.
“It’s a humbling experience, privileged talaga na sabi nga ni coach [Tab Baldwin] na makapasok lang sa pool,” said Parks Wednesday at the resumption of the national team practice at Meralco Gym.
In his first practice with the senior team, where he is the youngest at 23-years-old, Parks was immediately thrust into the dribble-drive system of Gilas.
While he still has a lot to catch up on, Park said he did not have any problems adjusting with the team.
“Actually hindi [ako nahirapan], nakakatuwa nga na air conditioned yung gym,” said Parks. “I’ve played with NBA guys, and the PBA is the same thing as professionals so I’m well adjusted.”
His time overseas with a team which travels interstate for games helped him mature not only as a basketball player but as a person.
“I learned a lot in the year I was gone and nakatulong din sa maturity,” said Parks. “Last niyo akong nakita I was only 21, now I’m 23.”