AWAY from home? No problem.
While adjusting to the grueling 60-game schedule in the B. League, ace wingman Bobby Ray Parks Jr. of Nagoya is relishing the support of the Filipino community in Japan.
“There’s a great Filipino community here in Nagoya, too, that I’ve reached out to, and they make me feel welcome and feel at home,” Parks said.
“It was a difficult but easy transition at the same time. It’s tough not having our families around, but we’re out here working hard and trying to bring back something to the family to support and help,” he added.
The 6-foot-4 Parks began his stint in the Japan league with a nagging calf strain injury but has since regained his fiery form and is proving his worth with the Diamond Dolphins.
The son of the late PBA great import Bobby Sr., the younger Parks said the fledgling Japan pro league is opening doors for the next generation.
“We’re definitely opening doors to the next generation in such a prestigious league that they’re looking around the whole Asia for other talents,” Parks said.
“I believe that there are a lot of talents still out there.”
Aside from Parks, eight others are plying their trade in Japan.
