Kobe Paras and Ray Parks are not pros yet, but many fans are already looking forward to their tandem in the Philippine national men’s basketball team.
Paras and Parks have been named to the Gilas Pilipinas roster for the Southeast Asian Games in August.
Them teaming up somehow brings memories of the past, as their fathers, PBA legends Benjie and Ray Sr., also played together for Shell during their illustrious careers.
“It’s emotional because we’re building on our fathers’ legacies,” Paras said. “It’s been decades ago since they played. Now, it’s our time, kami ni Ray-Ray, to show what we have. I am happy we’re teammates.
“It’s just fun na dati teammates sila nung dad ni Ray-Ray then kami naman ngayon teammates ni Ray-Ray.”
The 19-year old Paras recounted the times when he idolized Parks during his stint with the NU Bulldogs in the UAAP.
“In elementary, I was looking up to Ray Parks, sina Kiefer (Ravena), sina Jeron (Teng) when they were playing in college. Now, I’m starting to play with them,” he said.
For his part, Parks said he’s thrilled to play alongside Paras: “It feels great to play with a great competition and talent. Kobe is definitely a talented player.”
