Even without Clarkson in lineup, Philippines ready to fight in Asian Games

National team coach Yeng Guiao isn’t worried about not having Jordan Clarkson in his 12-man roster for the 2018 Asian Games.

In a report on ESPN5 citing an NBA source, Clarkson won’t suit up for the Philippines in the Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia despite the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’ efforts to tap the services of the Cleveland Cavaliers guard.

“We don’t have word yet but whatever it is, we will represent the country with or without Jordan Clarkson,” Guiao told reporters Saturday after the Philippine team survived TNT in a scrimmage.

“Of course, we would’ve wanted him to be with us but we can’t do anything about it. We did our best to do that and that’s okay.”

Guiao said the Nationals have the players who can compete and serve the flag to the best of their abilities.

“Everyone’s going to be happy if he’s here but if he’s not, we have a bunch of guys willing to work hard, step up and are determined to represent us in the way that we will be proud so we will fight.”

Guiao on Friday named Clarkson, a Filipino-American, part of the final 12, which included Stanley Pringle, Paul Lee, Christian Standhardinger, Gabe Norwood, James Yap, Maverick Ahanmisi, Asi Taulava, Raymond Almazan, Chris Tiu, Beau Belga and JP Erram.

Clarkson took the last spot which was initially intended for TNT swingman Don Trollano.

But with the 26-year-old Clarkson out, Guiao said he is looking to insert Trollano back into the lineup.

“Maybe we can ask the officials if we can still take his name into consideration,” Guiao said. “If not, we’ll be happy with 11.”

INQUIRER.net tried to reach SBP president Al Panlilio for comment but no response was made as of posting time.