Parks will bring his act to Japan. PBA photo
Big challenge for Parks
BOBBY Ray Parks Jr., the latest Filipino basketball standout to play in Japan, is looking forward for his new challenge overseas.
“New chapter, let’s go!!!” Parks posted through his Twitter account moments after Japan B.League Division I club Nagoya Diamond Dolphins announced that they have signed him for the 2021-2022 season.
The 28-year-old Parks will be the third Filipino to suit up in the top-tier Japanese pro league after brothers Thirdy Ravena (San-En NeoPhoenix) and Kiefer Ravena (Lakestars).
Brothers Javi Gomez de Liaño (Ibaraki Robots) and Juan Gomez de Liaño (Earth Friends Tokyo Z), as well as Kemark Cariño (Aomori Wat’s) will see action in the B.League’s second division.
“We are pleased to announce that we have signed Bobby Ray Parks Jr. from the Philippines for the B.League 2021-22 season. Ray will be registered as the Asian Player Quotas. His contract will become official as soon as he gets his medical clearance,” the Diamond Dolphins said in a statement posted through their social media accounts.
The Japan stint will be some sort of a reboot for the 28-year old Parks, the controversial star who had a contract issue with PBA club TNT late last year.
Kiefer Ravena is set to join the Lakestars after completing his commitments with NLEX this season, while his younger brother Thirdy will be on his second year with the NeoPhoenix.
Nagoya missed out on a playoff spot and tallied a 32-24 win-loss record in the previous B.League season.
“It is my honor and privilege to represent our team and I can’t wait to get out there and compete and do our best to bring home a championship to the city of Nagoya,” said Parks in the team’s announcement.
“I’m excited to meet my teammates, management, and most especially all the fans.”
The NEW B. League season tips off on September 30.
