Jordan Clarkson, now in Manila, upbeat ahead...

Los Angeles aboard Philippine Airlines PR 103.

Clarkson, who is returning for a third tour of duty for the Philippines, is set to be on the cutting edge of Gilas once the global meet unfurls on August 25.

Reyes, took the stage and shared valuable insights with the attendees, inspiring them to strive for excellence and embrace collaboration. She highlighted the importance of such collaborative events in driving the growth and development of the community. A notable moment in the program was the speech delivered by the LA City Mayor’s representative, Leila Lee, who emphasized that the Asian Community must take the initiative to research the numerous programs and opportunities that may be available to them.

The program also featured various government departments and officials who presented their organizations' programs and services aimed at supporting local businesses. The speakers included Julie Clowes, Director of SBA LA District Office; Ben Raju, SBA Director of Program Management; Rosa H. Penaloza, Assistant Chief Grants Administrator of the Economic PAGE 4

Gilas coach Chot Reyes said in an earlier interview that the Gilas brain trust is hoping to reintegrate the Utah Jazz star into the national program.

The Gilas training squad is scheduled to arrive from China on Tuesday afternoon, winning three of its four games in a pocket tournament against Senegal and Iran in Heyuan City in Guangdong province.

Clarkson’s first stint with Gilas was during the Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, back in 2018. His most recent stint was at the World Cup Asian Qualifiers around this time last year.

The Philippines is scheduled to host Montenegro and Mexico in a pair of friendlies a few days before the quadrennial event.

Clarkson, barring any complications, is expected to suit up in those games which should very well provide a glimpse of the final roster.

Gilas Pilipinas is bunched with the Dominican Republic, Angola and Italy in Group A of the showcase that will also serve as a qualifying tournament for the Paris Olympics next year. (Denison Rey Dalupang/Inquirer. net)