In an interview with “Basketball Sphere”, CJ Perez talked about everything that the Philippines can offer at the upcoming FIBA World Cup.
Along with Japan and Indonesia, the Philippines will be one of the hosts of the upcoming Mundobasket. In addition to an interesting career crowned with numerous individual awards, Christian Jaymar Perez was also part of the 3×3 national team.
During the conversation, he talked about everything that Jordan Clarkson brings to this national team, and he also touched on the big NBA name – Karl Anthony-Towns, who will play for the Dominican Republic after a 10-year break.
More than a game
It has long been clear that basketball in the Philippines is more than a game. Also, they are one of the few countries where basketball is the national sport “numero uno”. When it comes to the World Cup, it can be a double-edged sword, as CJ Perez is also aware.
“Even without the fact that Mundobasket will be held here, the fans are crazy about basketball. There is no street in the Philippines that does not have a basketball court. Of course there is pressure, but we will do our best for our country and for all these people who support us. We can’t promise the result, but I can guarantee that we will play every game with all our hearts in order to win.”
No room for error
At the previous World Cup, CJ Perez was one of the youngest members of the national team. Then he proved himself by scoring an average of 12.6 points, three rebounds and three assists. Now things are a little different.
“It is incomparable to play international basketball and the domestic championship. At the World Cup, everyone is simply higher, faster, and they will find a way to quickly punish you for every little mistake. There is no room for error. The domestic league offers talented players, but we simply lack height.
Also, we play a quarter lasting 12 minutes, so we have enough time for a potential comeback, and to make things right. The bottom line is that the style of basketball in the Philippines is different, but it’s up to us to focus as much as possible to improve our game.”
3×3 basketball, long-distance goals and a role model
CJ Perez was part of the Philippine national team that competes in 3×3 basketball. In addition, he collected numerous awards from his youngest days, all the way to the title in the Philippine championship and the MVP award. He also revealed to us which American basketball player has inspired him throughout his career.
“During 3×3 tournaments, I realized how much more physically demanding the game helped me to improve my skills. There I played against the best players in the world, which helped me a lot in my career. My goals are to win as many trophies as possible and to record enough victories at the World Cup to qualify for the Olympic Games.
LeBron James is a walking inspiration, especially when you consider his age and the quality of play he provides. Simply, he is a role model with his behavior off the floor, which also inspires me.”
Opponents in group A
“We have an extremely difficult group. These are some of the best players on the planet, like Karl-Anthony Towns. It will be demanding against every national team, but it is up to us to prepare as best we can for all the upcoming challenges.
The arrival of Clarkson increases the Philippines chances. We know what he is capable on the court. He is a great player and his presence has a positive effect on our confidence. This also increases chances to beat our rivals.”
The United States national team
“I have to say that the United States has the best roster. There are many young players out there eager to prove themselves. They are hungry for trophies and are here to prove to everyone how much they can be counted on” – concluded CJ Perez conversation with “Basketball Sphere”.