JAKARTA — Weightlifting gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz vowed she'll be cheering herself hoarse when the Philippines takes on Korea in a knockout basketball quarterfinal in the 18th Asian Games on Monday.
Diaz has become the Philippine contingent's top cheer-leader since winning the breakthrough gold medal last week and she won’t miss the chance to rally behind Jordan Clarkson and company in the 11 a.m. match.
The Zamboanguena also found a lot of things in common with the Cavaliers star after a brief chat.
"Jordan is also quiet just like me, very simple, but a very nice person," said Diaz, who shared a few laughs with the 6-foot-5 NBA player when she dropped by the Philippine team's practice on Saturday afternoon.
"I asked him how he feels playing for the national team, and he said it's an honor and that he's proud to represent the Philippines," Diaz said.
Diaz admitted she's enjoying the new role as cheerleader.
"I try to encourage them to keep pushing, to keep fighting for flag and country," she said. "For me, if I was able to do it, win the gold, I'm confident our other athletes can also do it and I'm supporting them all out. I want to inspire them.”
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