BOBBY Ray Parks said playing in the PBA remains his ultimate goal as he responded to critics about his decision to play in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
Following a memorable campaign with San Miguel-Alab Pilipinas in the Asean Basketball League (ABL), Parks signed up for the Mandaluyong El Tigres in the MPBL, which will open its next conference on June 12.
Parks’ decision to suit up for the El Tigres was met with negative reactions from netizens who felt he should choose to go the PBA instead of playing in the MPBL.
Parks somewhat explained his decision to play in the MPBL on Twitter on Friday night, while also hinting that he could also enter the PBA draft this year.
Parks said he definitely wants to play in the PBA someday, but that isn’t possible this season since the draft will occur sometime around November or December.
“Guys, alam ko naman na ang PBA ang premier league, at ‘yun naman ang ultimate goal one day. Pero the draft isn’t until November or December pa yon sa alam ko,” Park said.
“So until then, kahit gustuhin ko na mag-PBA, kailangan ko pa din maghintay sa draft. Gets?” he added.
Parks’ stint in the MPBL, however, remains in doubt owing to a controversial rule where each team is allowed to play only one Fil-American no taller than 6-4.
Parks has criticized the rule, saying it was the first time he was considered an American in the Philippines despite holding a Philippine passport and having represented the country in international competitions.
Amid the controversy, a number of fans have questioned Parks' decision to play in the MPBL, saying he should take his act instead to the PBA.
Mandaluyong has Parks and Alab teammate Lawrence Domingo in its roster but MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes said the El Tigres will have to choose between the two on who will play since they are both considered Fil-Ams.
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