Mavs owner Mark Cuban speaks on Bobby Ray Parks Jr

MANILA, Philippines – Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has a talent for spotting potential in a commodity that isn’t easily noticed, be it a commercial product or an NBA hopeful.

Though the former two-time UAAP MVP Bobby Ray Parks Jr from National University played sparingly in the opener of the Mavericks’ Summer League on Sunday, July 12 Manila time, Cuban was watching intently. He liked some things that he saw in that short span, and saw some room to grow as well.

“He’s going to have to work hard to prove that he belongs,” Cuban said in a story on SB Nation’s Mavs blog. “I think he did really well.

The Filipino-American Parks, who was not picked in the 2015 NBA Draft, played a total of 3 minutes and 19 seconds in the 90—86 loss against the New Orleans Pelicans, finishing with a statline of 0 points, 1 turnover, 1 foul, and a +/- of -3.

The Summer League gives rookies, undrafted prospects and sophomores an opportunity to work on their skills during the off-season. Players like Jeremy Lin and others have gotten attention for their play in the Summer League and earned contracts.

Cuban says the 6-foot-4 Parks must improve before adding “But he’s here, and showed he belongs and he’s got a chance.”

Cuban, despite observing that Parks appeared “really, really nervous,” noted the number of Filipinos who were on hand in Las Vegas to watch the 22-year-old Parks.

Still, Cuban sees the potential to harness the Philippine market with a player like Parks. 

“We talk about loving basketball in the United States but there is no country more basketball crazy than the Philippines,” said Cuban. “I’d love to see more Filipino players. I really, really, would. I don’t think people here really realize the impact of basketball on the Philippines and that’s important. I would love to be the team of the Philippines.”

The Mavs Summer League continues on Wednesday, July 15 local time against the Washington Wizards. – Rappler.com