A cloud of uncertainty hovers over Jordan Clarkson as he heads for Manila to power Gilas Pilipinas in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
In a report by Clutch Point, the 30-year-old Clarkson’s future in the National Basketball Association (NBA) hangs in limbo as the Utah Jazz put all their players on the trading block following a disappointing playoff exit in the previous season.
First to go was French center Ruby Gobert, who was sent to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for a trade package that includes Malik Beasly, Jarred Vanderbilt, Patrick Beverley and a handful of future draft choices.
The respected news outlet believes that star guard Donovan Mitchell and Clarkson will be the next to go in a bid to give the Jazz front office a refreshing start heading into the 2022-2023 season this October.
Although he is aware, Clarkson stressed that the news hardly bothers him.
After all, the NBA is a business and he can be easily dealt despite having a year left in his four-year contract.
“I’m chilling,” he said when asked about the possible scenarios that could unfold while he is in the middle of an overseas assignment with Gilas Pilipinas.
“My mood is — I’m always good. My vibe is always good. It doesn’t change. This is my ninth year going into the league. I know how the business of basketball works.”
Clarkson, who holds Philippine passport, will be arriving in Manila on 18 August to power Gilas in the prestigious Asian Qualifiers.
He will power a high-caliber squad that will feature NBA prospect Kai Sotto as well as other young guns in Dwight Ramos, Kevin Quiambao, Thirdy Ravena, Carl Tamayo and LeBron Lopez.
Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) stars Ray Parks and Kiefer Ravena will also be part of the pool together with other pro stars whose name would be announced shortly after the ongoing Philippine Cup.
Gilas will face Lebanon at the Nouhad Nawfal Sports Complex in Beirut on 25 August before tackling Saudi Arabia at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on 29 August.