Q&A with former UAAP MVP Bobby Ray Parks Jr.

Leading up to the 2015 NBA draft, Nets Daily News will be talking with some of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s class. Here is the complete transcript from our exclusive interview with former UAAP MVP Bobby Ray Parks Jr. Five years ago, Parks was considered an elite recruit to any US NCAA Division I program. Today, the Filipino basketball star harbors the dream of finally making it to the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Ravi Shah: As a two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player and a member of the Sinag Pilipinas team that won the gold in the SEABA championship last month, how do you think your experience in the Philippines has prepared you for the NBA?

Bobby Ray Parks Jr: Playing in the Philippines helped me prepare for my workouts in the NBA by allowing me to see different styles of play. It also gave me experience playing alongside and against other professionals.

RS: Most mock drafts have you going undrafted in this year’s NBA draft. How does this motivate you to work harder?

BRP: Being drafted would truly be a blessing, but I completely understand if I don’t get selected. It’s great that I am in the United States now competing for an NBA roster spot. Unlike most basketball players here who went to college, I have been off the map since I left high school. I will truly accept my position whether or not I get drafted.  The most important thing for me is that I got my foot in the door for the NBA.

RS: What skills do you think translate well to the NBA?

BRP: I just want to bring my competitiveness and toughness on defense to the NBA. Most talented players want to score the most points and record the most assists. I just want to be the guy that can bring energy and awareness on defense every time I’m on the court. I am also fairly tall for the point guard position and can be versatile in defending both the point and shooting guard positions.

RS: On June 20, 2014, you were invited by LA Lakers to join their workout for the NBA draft. Due to problems in the draft application, you are unable to participate. Are you glad that you waited an additional year before declaring for the NBA draft?

BRP: Yes sir. I see it as God’s way of telling me that it was not time yet.I know his plan is perfect.

RS: If you had to pick someone whose game you resemble, whom would you say?

BRP: I can’t say that I play exactly like one person in the league, but I like Avery Bradley‘s style of play. He is competitive, brings energy on defense, and can score when needed.

RS: Besides the Nets, what other teams are you working out for in the coming weeks?

BRP: I have worked out for the Utah Jazz and have workouts for the Nets, Mavericks, Celtics and possibly Atlanta coming up.

RS: Over the past few years, the Brooklyn Nets have developed a huge fan base from the Philippines. What message would you like to convey to Nets/Philippines fans as you prepare for the NBA draft?

BRP: I just want to thank them for their unconditional support not just for me, but also for the Brooklyn Nets.I’ll make sure to give it my all in every opportunity that presents itself and leave the rest up to God. I continue to ask for prayers and continuous support for my journey into making it into the NBA.