15 May 2019
By Roy Afable
Rising star Collin Sexton of the Cleveland Cavaliers is in town for this year’s Jr. NBA Philippines National Training Camp. Prior to his visit here in the Philippines, Sexton has already heard so many good things about the country especially about basketball.
“Prior to coming here I was told it was a great city and great place to play in because basketball is number one here as well as basketball stuff on social media. And so far it has been fun,” the Cavaliers guard said.
During the interview session with the media, he spoke about his rookie season with the Cavaliers and his teammate, Fil-am Jordan Clarkson.
“It was a rough season for us. We had different coaches, training different players but we fought till the end and never gave up. And next season we are looking at making it to the playoffs. That’s the goal. Jordan Clarkson is coming back and he’s from here and it’s good for us,” Sexton explained.
“Jordan is a great player. You know he will give everything each time he steps on the court. He’s like a microwave – instant offense,” he added.
The upcoming sophomore pro baller shared his thoughts about the recently hired Cavaliers coach John Beilein.
“He is a great guy. I got a chance to talk to him a bit about the team and his goals for us. I think he’ll be good for us and I can’t wait to meet him face to face.”
Sexton even mentioned that his personal trainer Nick Stapleton is currently working with the Philippines’ own Kai Sotto as one of his coached in Atlanta, Georgia, aspiring to play in the NBA.
“Kai is my guy. He is great player and he has gotten a lot better and just watch out for him,” Sexton said of the young 7-foot Filipino baller.
Speaking of the youth, the Cavaliers Point Guard spoke of how important basketball programs like the Jr. NBA can make a big difference in the development of kids’ hoops skills.
“Programs like this are very important. This can make a big difference in someone’s life,” the 2016 FIBA Under-17 World Cup MVP stressed.
“For me to come here and the NBA to have this is great. We believe this could go a long way.”
Follow the writer on Twitter: @AirTsinelas
