TNT’s Ray Parks to skip PBA season due to ‘personal reasons’

Ray Parks on the bench for TNT. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines — Ray Parks will miss this year’s PBA season, the TNT guard announced on social media Tuesday.

In a statement, Parks cited “personal reasons” specifically involving his family in his decision to step away.

“It is with a heavy heart that I will have to excuse myself and not partake in this year’s PBA season due to personal reasons which in particular, my family,” he wrote.

“It was not an easy decision to make, especially since I’ve been in constant talks with TNT management, but right now, this is what’s best for me and my family.”

https://twitter.com/ray1parks/status/1368114884597088256

The 28-year-old guard is coming off an impressive season in the Philippine Cup bubble last year for the Tropang Giga, averaging 22.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.5 steals.

Parks’ all-around brilliance helped TNT make the finals before losing to Barangay Ginebra in five games.

His absence will be a big blow to TNT, which recently announced the return of Chot Reyes as its head coach.

“I will always be grateful for the opportunity to represent TNT and be part of such a special team and culture. Hopefully one day, once everything is resolved, I can come back to the team and help bring a championship to TNT.”