Robin Lopez Willing To Play For The Philippines : The 7-Foot NBA Center Wants to Be Part of Smart Gilas Pilipinas!

When I spotted Robin Lopez watching the game between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and Korea's LG Sakers last Tuesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, I told to myself that he must be a fan of Philippine Basketball.

My gut feel was right. He's not only a fan who appreciates Filipinos' passion for the game, he also wants to put on the Gilas jersey if given the chance.

Yesterday at the Gatorade Hoops center near Guadalupe wherein Robin along with teammate Wesley Matthews and Coach Avery Johnson conducted a basketball clinic for a select group of elite ballers, the 7-foot center disclosed that he's aware of the popularity of basketball in our country, that he knows a little bit of our culture because he has a Filipino bestfriend, and that he's willing to play for the Philippines.

“I’d love to play for the Philippines. I realized the passion these people have for basketball. If the whole Andray Blatche thing doesn't work out I’m here for Gilas,” Robin declared.

"I don't wish any harm to come with Dray or anything bad in the situation they are in now. Obviously, he has played his heart out for that team (Philippines) and I think he is a great fit for Gilas," added the Portland big man.