BOBBY Ray Parks wrapped up workout with the Utah Jazz on Tuesday and is set to show his wares in the rookie camp of four other high-profile ballclubs as he pursues his dream to play in the NBA.
The two-time UAAP MVP, listed at 6-4 in the US, said he was confident he was able to show what he can do in the face of the "high level of talent" in the Jazz's rookie camp.
“I think I did alright. There’s a lot of talent out there, I just want to work hard and show the coaches what I can do for the team,” said Parks in an interview video posted on the Jazz's website.
Parks is scheduled for workouts with the Brooklyn Nets, Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks, and the Boston Celtics in the weeks leading up to the NBA rookie draft on June 25 (June 26, Manila time).
The son of PBA great Bobby Parks told the media it has always been his dream to be the first homegrown Filipino player to make the roster of an NBA team.
"Jordan Clarkson (of the Los Angeles Lakers) is Filipino-American. Difference between him and I is that I’m homegrown. I grew up there. I speak the language," said Parks.
"Not to take away from Jordan, he’s a great player. They adore him. For a Filipino to grow up in the Philippines to have that background is a privilege."
Parks also explained his decision to shun a chance to play in the US NCAA Division I and return to the Philippines, saying he wanted to be with his family and his dad who died of cancer in 2013.
“It was worth it to be with him in his dying seconds, it was a blessing. Basketball, career-wise, I still have the opportunity right now, I’m working out for Utah,” said Parks.
"Definitely, dream of his and mine," he added on his bid to make it to the NBA. "I’m so happy that the Filipino community is supporting me right now."
Asked what he can bring to an NBA team, the Gilas cadet said: “I can play the 1 and 2, and defend both spots. I hope I can bring that to the next level. Hopefully teams would see that. (I can) knock down shots and layups and be a leader and energize the team.”
Parks said all he can do at this point is work hard.
“I have no idea," he said when asked about his chance to make the NBA roster. "I’ll leave it up to God. Just want to honor and praise Him in everything that I do and just every time I step out on the floor I just want give out my best.”
Bobby Parks Jr. (Guard, Philippines) meets the media after his draft workout and discusses playing in the Philippines.
Bobby Parks Jr. (Guard, Philippines) meets the media after his draft workout and discusses playing in the Philippines
Posted by Utah Jazz on Monday, June 15, 2015