Clarkson bound for Manila, but not for Gilas training camp

Jordan Clarkson will fly with Gilas Pilipinas to Taiwan for the Jones Cup. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Jordan Clarkson is set to return to Manila Friday night, but he’s not joining the Gilas Pilipinas practices anytime soon.

The Los Angeles Lakers guard will arrive at 8 p.m. on Friday and will stay in the country only for the weekend.

Clarkson tweeted the word “Manila” late Thursday night, igniting speculations that he may be Philippines-bound.

Though that is true, the Fil-American rising star will only be present for the Gilas Pilipinas jersey unveiling set on Saturday afternoon.

It’s unclear, though, whether he will be joining the team’s practice after the Nike event.

Clarkson will only be in the country up until Monday.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) officials has repeatedly denied any chances of Clarkson joining the national team due to his eligibility issues.

SBP executive director Sonny Barrios has also previously stated that they have already shelved the matter and instead is focusing on the preparation of the national team and the hosting of the Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament in July.

Already picking up steam with its daily practices, Gilas is set to welcome back naturalized center Andray Blatche.

Blatche will arrive at 11 p.m. on Friday and will join the Gilas training on Saturday.